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[timid-raccoon]

“Hi baby, I’m your dad.” 🥹🥹🥹

Excuse me while I go dissolve in a puddle of goo, this was way too sweet ❤

That December Night-One

*image not mine*

Pairings: Matt Dierkes x Reader

Warnings/Tropes: swearing, smut(18+), angst, fluff, pregnancy/babydaddy!matt, talks of pregnancy.

Summary: "Fuck around and find out." Reader never thought it meant literally until it happened to her. One night of what was supposed to be harmless kissing managed to turn her entire world upside down.

A/N: The idea for this story came from this post and mine and @artificialbreezy's texting back and forth. So thank you so much babe for the ideas you contributed to this story. It's going to be a fun one! Also, I apologize if the sections seem pretty small, I plan on having the most exciting things happen in the next two chapters. This one was a simple build-up!

Tags: @loeytuan98 @thatchickwiththecamera @dsireland86 @iknownothingpeople @bngurngheart @malice-ov-mercy @cookiesupplier @heyyoplayer @myownthoughts12 @vinyardmaurao @missduffsblog @hayleylatour @sleepyomens @artificialbreezy @marvelousmal @lma1986 @wild-child-7747 @calleyx13 @illmakeyousaywow @jaded-and-hollow-souls @itsafullmoon @shilohrosechicken @klutzy-kay24 @shadowseve @blueskylinesx @exitwoundsx @thisbicc @pathion @cookiesupplier @sammyjoeee @whenthesummerdies @flowery-mess @xxkittenkissesxx @its-inourblood @madomens @collidewiththesavannah @xserena-13 @cncohshit @rain-down-on-me @sorrowsofsilence @jilliemiw86

READER

I should not be doing this, especially in this stranger's car. 

This was so wrong. So fucking wrong. 

But it felt so right. 

He felt so right. 

What started as a weekend trip to Los Angeles to visit my now ex boyfriend ended up with me in the backseat of this man’s car; a man I had met less than an hour ago.

My ex, Fred, had moved here a few weeks ago for work, which put a huge strain on our two year relationship. So after working it out with one of my best friends that lived here as well, I decided to come surprise him. She said they’ll be at a party for some rock stars that released an album a few weeks ago. None of that mattered, I only cared to see Fred. 

So after flying in from Vermont, taking an Uber all the way from the airport to the other side of the city and spending a pretty penny on it, I maneuvered my way inside the over-packed house filled with bodies, trying to find Fred. My eyes briefly landed on who I assumed were the “rockstars.” Four guys were covered in ink, especially the one with brown swoopy hair, but they all wore goofy smiles as they talked amongst themselves. I marveled at how they seemed like a family and wondered what that was like. 

Focus, Y/N.

“Sorry,” I murmured after I bumped into a strong chest. 

My eyes flicked up to a man whose eyes were covered by the rim of his hat, golden waves of hair falling around his shoulders. 

“You’re fine,” his hands gripped my elbows to keep me steady. 

It felt like every part of my soul was lit ablaze by his touch and gaze upon me and I sucked in a breath when I noticed his shirt. 

Lord of The Rings. 

One of my favorite movies. 

Clearing my throat, I ignored the way my heart fluttered when the man’s lips curled up in a faint smile after he caught me staring, and excused myself from him with a nod. His eyes lingered on my back as I scurried throughout the rest of the house to find Fred. I knew it was this house he was at, my friend sent me their pinned location. 

After coming up empty on the main floor of the house, I pushed my way through the sea of bodies once again, all of them raising their drinks to the rock stars for a “Kick ass album! Can’t wait for the new era!” Their cheers fell on deaf ears as I climbed the staircase towards where the bedrooms were, hoping yet not hoping to find Fred in one of them. 

So naive.

I stood in the doorway of the bathroom, watching as Fred had his face buried deep into some woman's pussy.

No, not just any woman. 

My best friend. 

With tears burning in my eyes, I turned my back to them, unnoticed, and nearly tripped over my feet as I ran down the stairs; once again nearly falling into someone's embrace. 

“Woah, easy there. Did you see a ghost or something?” His chest rumbled with laughter, only to snap his mouth shut when he saw the tears running down my face. 

It was the same man I had run into earlier, the one with the Lord Of The Rings shirt. 

“Shit,” he cursed. “Are you alright?” 

“Uh,” I stood straighter, his hands still resting on my hips. I stood on the stairs, two steps above him so I could stare down at him. “I’m fine. I was just leaving.”

The man didn’t say anything for a long moment, simply watching my face as a way to try and read my mind. Just as his mouth parted to speak, I heard my name from behind me at the top of the staircase. 

Glancing over my shoulder, I saw Fred making his way down slowly with my friend trailing behind him. He wiped his mouth on the sleeve of his shirt before giving me a smile. 

“Hey baby! I didn’t know you were flying in!” 

Tears welled in my eyes again, my heart breaking at the scene I saw less than five minutes ago. Two years of love and what I thought eventually marriage thrown away by lust and lies.

The man at the bottom of the stairs noticed the way my body shook in his embrace as I continued to stare at Fred. 

“Do I need to kick his ass?” he asked. 

Turning my head towards the man, I blew out a shaky breath. “Can you get me out of here? Please?”

His smile faltered but immediately nodded, leading me through the crowd of people and away from Fred, who called after me. 

“Where can I take you?” The man asked as we neared the front door, halting for a moment to glance back at my face.

Anywhere is better than here. 

“My hotel,” I choked out, doing my best to keep the sobs locked away. 

I wouldn’t cry. Not for Fred. 

I should have said no, I could find my own way back to my hotel that there was no use for anymore since I was leaving in the morning. But there was something soft in the way his thumb brushed away the tears from my face that eased away the fear of who this man truly was. So I accepted his offer to drive me back to my hotel since it was pretty late and I knew that this area could be dangerous in the dark. 

It was mid December in Los Angeles, a vast difference to Vermont. Something the man made fun of when he noticed me take off my bulky cardigan as soon as we stepped outside. 

“You’re not from here, are you?” He chuckled his question as we walked down the street toward his car. 

I sniffled and wiped my nose on the back of my hand. “No. I fucking flew all the way from Vermont to surprise that asshole only to find him tongue fucking my best friend. How fucking cliche is that?!” I rambled on, my voice a lost echo into the night sky. 

He hummed while shrugging. “Clearly it’s his loss.” 

With him holding the passenger side door open for me, I slipped inside just as rain began to fall from the sky, drenching him instantly. I couldn’t help but chuckle in my broken state as he ran around the car, splashing a puddle that drenched his pants from knees down.

“How the fuck did I manage to step in the only puddle,” he cursed himself once he sat behind the steering wheel, shaking the rain out from his hair. 

He cocked his head to the side as he stared at me. “I’m glad you think this is funny.” 

“Hey compared to what just happened to me, I’d rather fall face first into three puddles,” I admitted with a laugh. 

The man’s face softened when my laugh filled the car and after a moment, he pulled away from the curb once I told him what hotel I was staying at. During the entire car ride, neither of us said a word. I let my mind wander back to Fred, my phone buzzing non stop since I left that house. I knew that he was the one calling and texting but I couldn’t be bothered to check. He was the one that threw away two years, not me. I refused to falter back into Fred, let him sweet talk his way into my heart only for him to do the same thing. 

I made a promise to myself at that moment to never let another man into my heart. The pain that ate away inside of me was debilitating. I was too independent of a woman to allow another man to use and lie to me. No man was worth this hurt. 

Yet, as this man pulled up to my hotel and sat back in his seat with his body facing me, I could feel the sudden sexual tension. I’d never been one to think that the best way to get over someone is to get under someone else. There was no way that bullshit actually worked. If I actually believed that line of thinking, then why couldn’t I ignore the aura of this man as it radiated through the car. His presence alone was enough to make me hold my breath and clench my knees together when his gaze burned on the side of my face. I knew from the moment his hands wrapped around me that I’d be drawn to him and this quick car ride back would be anything but quick. 

Which is where I currently found myself after we both whispered our agreement to each other. 

Just one night.

“Fuck,” I breathed when teeth nipped at the sensitive flesh of my neck before lips attacked mine yet again. 

The man underneath me moaned as I rolled my hips over his, the hardness of his cock pressing against the inside of my thigh. The windows of the car fogged up with the heat of our kiss, so intense, so sloppy, but neither of us cared. I pulled at his shirt, lifting him closer to me as he lounged in the back seat. His fingers dragged over the material of my jeans, guiding my clothed core over his cock. 

“Fuck baby, I knew from the second you walked in the room tonight, I’d have you in this position,” he grunted while running his hand underneath my shirt to toss it up over me onto the front seat. 

I shivered as the cool air of the car brushed against my bare chest, his eyes darkening at the sight of my peaked nipples. His tongue danced around my left one while his fingers played with my right, often switching between the two. 

The rain fell against the car as a soft tune from the radio acted as background noise as we continued to make out in the back seat. 

“I don’t-“, I panted when his free hand worked at the button on my jeans. “I don’t even know your name.” 

“Matt,” he rasped while helping me shimmy out of my jeans which were quite difficult in our position in the back seat. 

Matt had a simple Toyota Corolla making it nearly impossible to get comfortable. 

I broke apart our kiss to help him out of his shirt, digging my nails into the soft flesh of his chest. “Y/N”.

A noise crawled from the back of his throat as he repeated my name and hooked a finger in my panties. 

“Well, Y/N, are you going to be a good fucking girl for me and let me taste you? I can smell you staining my leather seats and I’m desperate.” 

Holy hell. 

An unknown feeling ignited in my lower gut when Matt laid me down on the seat and leisurely dragged the lacy material down my legs. I raised my hips up towards him, silently begging him. 

“I never heard an answer, Y/N,” he let my panties hang loosely on my ankle. 

My bottom lip caught between my teeth, unable to speak because I was afraid my admission would seize all actions. I felt Matt’s warm breath fan over my core after he positioned us so he was able to kneel on the back seat, one of my legs against the back windshield and the other resting on the floor. 

“I-uh,” I covered my face with my hands, suddenly very embarrassed and exposed in front of him as I lay completely bare for him. 

“Hey,” Matt’s voice was low as he reached for my hands to remove them from my face. “Don’t hide from me.” 

His hair fell into his face while he loomed over me thanks to me knocking off his hat when I first jumped in his lap. I brushed away the golden locks so I could now see his face in his entirety. 

He was gorgeous. 

Letting out a breath, I finally let it slip why I was hiding from him. 

“I’ve never had that before,” I motioned towards my pussy. 

Matt gazed at me with furrowed brows but then the lines in his forehead cleared when he realized what I meant. 

“Wait,” he sat back on his knees now while I sat up on my elbows. “You mean to tell me that fucking prick never ate you out before but you caught him down on another woman?” 

I pursed my lips while shaking my head. “Kind of fucked up when you think about it.”

Matt let out a low growl before pulling my knees to my chest, my panties that were still hanging on my ankle flying off to somewhere in the car. 

“Can I be the first one that gets to taste you, baby? Hm?” His voice was nearly gone, overtaken by whatever consumed him. 

I reached for his head that was perched between my legs and urged him forward. “Please.”

Matt’s warm tongue flicked over my slick folds and I moaned out his name while running my hands through his hair, hips bucking up into his mouth when he pressed the tip of his tongue on my clit.

"Shit," I breathed, eyes fluttering shut.

This is what I'm missing? It only urged my anger tenfold for the scene I walked into back at the house. 

"Fuck, baby. I'd get on my knees every day for you. You taste so fucking good," Matt murmured briefly pulling away from my clit.

I hissed in pleasure when his teeth grazed over it before wrapping his lips over my sensitive bud and began sucking. A long finger slid between my folds as he hooked that finger inside of me. With his mouth biting and sucking on my clit and his finger pumping in and out of me, I felt the coil in my lower belly pull tight. I peered down and moaned at the sight of Matt’s eyes closed shut as he devoured all of me. His nails dug into the skin of my thighs as he pushed my legs closer to my chest. I grasped at the roots of his hair as I rode his face closer to my release; it was so close.

"I can feel you clench around my fingers, Y/N. You’re so close,” Matt pulled away from my pussy to glance up at me, the sight of his mouth covered in my arousal unholy. 

“Matt, I just want to cum,” I begged, breathless when his mouth tongue flicked over my clit again. 

Two more pumps of his fingers were my undoing as the coil finally snapped, my release shaking my entire body. 

Matt hummed in delight before pressing a tender kiss to my thigh and then worked himself out of his pants. 

“God, I need more of you, baby. Can I fuck that pretty pussy?” He asked with his hand wrapped around his cock. 

My eyes nearly widened when I noticed the size of him and I let out a nervous breath, something Matt noticed as he maneuvered us so I was straddling him in the middle seat, the head of his cock brushing along my folds before slipping in slowly. 

I hissed, digging my nails into his broad shoulders. “Matt.”

His nose skimmed along my neck. “It’s alright, baby. I’ll go slow. We can’t rush perfect things. 

But that wasn’t why I was stopping him. 

“Do you have a condom?” I asked, pulling away so I could gaze down at him. 

My heart was pounding so loud in my chest I could hear each beat in my ears, the sight of Matt looking so blissed out even before reaching his own release. But then his face faltered at my words. 

“Fuck,” he cursed while running a hand down his face. “I didn’t expect to have sex tonight, if I’m being honest. You’re not on anything?” 

I merely shook my head before letting my shoulders fall, along with my forehead against his shoulder. I’d  been so wound up from our make out session earlier and with his mouth devouring me, to have everything ripped from me because neither of us were prepared made me groan. 

“Just the head then, yea? How does that sound, baby?” Matt dug his fingers into my hips as he slowly sank the tip of his cock inside of me again. 

“Fuck,” the word dragged out of my mouth, muffled by his shoulder. “O-oh-okay.”

His chest rumbled beneath me as he laguidly fucked me with just the head of his cock. It felt so good, dragging in and out of me as my walls clenched desperately for more. 

I needed more. 

Arching myself back from him, I eased farther down on his cock at my own pace, slowly taking every inch of him. Matt choked on a breath once I was fully seated on him and wrapped an arm around me to pull me flush against his chest, our lips meeting in a tangled mess of tongues and saliva. His thrusts were unrelenting, the sound of skin slapping against skin overpowering the noise of the raging thunderstorm outside. 

Matt felt nothing like Fred; he felt more full, more fulfilling. The thought lingered in the back of my mind that this one night would be a hard one to forget.

“Such a slut for my cock, yeah? Look at you, taking all of me,” Matt praised with a hard snap of his hips, causing me to cry out before his mouth covered mine in a kiss so fierce it made my head spin. 

We were both lost in the haze we immersed ourselves in, souls and body intertwined with each other, that neither of us stopped it when my second orgasm washed over me seconds before Matt’s cock twitched, him spilling himself deep inside of me. 

I collapsed against his chest as his arms encircled around me, both of us coming down from the high we shared. I let the even beats of his heart bring me back to the present, suddenly realizing what exactly just happened. Slowly rising off of his softer dick, I began searching for my clothes to slip them on. 

Matt ran a hand through his hair before following me in getting dressed. With his hat perched back on his head, he rubbed the back of his neck. 

“Um, I’m not sure what to say.” 

I couldn’t help but giggle at how vast his demeanor changed from a man spewing filthy things to someone who messed with the ends of his shirt nervously. 

“Thank you,” I spoke. “For taking me away from Fred, driving me to my hotel, and making me forget everything for the time being.”

Matt nodded with a smile. “Promise you won’t go crawling back to him?” 

Snorting, I buried myself in my oversized cardigan and shook my head. “Hell no. He can fucking rot. I’m going to focus on myself for a little while.”

Calloused fingers brushed away the strands of hair from my face before trailing down the side of my neck. “Take care of yourself, Y/N. You deserve nothing but happiness.”

I pressed a gentle kiss into his palm, my words lingering in the air after I slipped out from the car. 

“Be good, Matt.”

MATT

I sat in the backseat of the car for a few beats, long after Y/N ran through the rain towards the hotel, and tried to understand what exactly happened. When we first began the album release party for Bad Omens, I had every intention of remaining professional as their manager, making sure everything ran smoothly. Yet, the moment Y/N stumbled into my arms and I drank in those doe eyes when she stared up at me, I knew I was done for. 

That simple action was enough to drag me down to the depths of her. Every fiber of my being craved her, physically and spiritually. Now that I had a taste of her, I knew it would be difficult to forget the way she felt coming undone on my cock. 

Groaning, I dragged a hand down my face before clambering back into the driver's seat, finally heading back to Davis’ house where the party was being held. I knew Noah was waiting for me so we could ride back home together. I could only hope that he didn’t notice I slipped away from the party for an hour. 

Pulling the car up to the curb at his tall figure shielding himself from the rain with his jacket, Noah slipped into the front seat and shook out the water all over me and the leather. 

“Watch it!” I chastised him, almost forgetting the mess that was left in the back seat.

Noah’s nostrils flared for a moment. “Why does it smell like sex in here?” 

“Wh-what?” I stammered with crimson cheeks.

“It smells like sex in here,” he chuckled while looking over his shoulder to the back seat. “Where the hell did you run off to anyway?” 

I shrugged, finally driving back towards our house, the opposite way of where I dropped Y/N off. 

“I took someone home,” I answered with a nonchalant shrug. 

Out of the corner of my eyes, I watched in horror as Noah reached for the gear shift to unhook a pair of yellow lace panties. 

“Hm,” he hummed low, twirling them between his fingers. “Someone left something important behind.” 

Cursing, I snatched the panties from Noah and pocketed them into my joggers. 

“Fuck you, asshole.” 

He let out a belt of laughter before easing himself into the seat, long limbs stretched out. “Was it the girl I saw you with your arms around earlier? At the bottom of the stairs?”

My silence was my answer as I gripped the steering wheel, trying so hard to forget the way Y/N tasted, her arousal still lingering on my lips. 

“Did you get her number?” 

I shook my head with a sigh. “We both agreed it would be a one night thing. She’s from Vermont and is leaving in the morning. I won’t see her again.” 

I couldn’t ignore the way my heart sank to my stomach. 

“At least tell me you were safe,” Noah questioned, which caused me to shift in the driver's seat. 

“Dude!” He groaned, leaning over towards the glove compartment to pull out a brand new box of condoms. 

My eyes darted from the road to it. “Where the fuck did those come from?” 

He shrugged, tossing it back into the compartment. “I stocked them up after I used the last one.” 

I slammed on the breaks as I came to a stop at a red light, narrowed eyes pinning him in his place. “Are you telling me you fucked someone in my car?” 

“Shit,” Noah grimaced. “I didn't mean to blurt that out. It was the time my car was in the shop and Adreanna couldn’t wait until we got home.” 

His girlfriend. 

“You’re a fucking dick,” I spat as the light turned green, inching closer and closer to our shared home. “I can’t believe there were condoms right there the entire time.”

He raised a teasing brow. “Too busy to check, huh?” 

I punched his shoulder before pulling into the driveway and he rubbed at the growing red mark, still laughing his ass off. 

“Let’s hope she doesn't show up in a year with a baby claiming it's yours,” he said and then clambered out of the car. 

I sat there for a moment, letting his words sink deep within my bones, only one thought running through my mind. 

Wouldn’t that be nice.

READER

No. 

No. 

No. No. No. 

This is all a dream, a nightmare. One that I’m bound to wake up from any moment with a breath of relief. 

Right, if it's a dream then why are you holding two positive tests and an ultrasound?

The thought made my stomach and shoulders fall in succession, knowing that there was no way I could deny it any longer. The last couple of months of constant morning sickness and sensitivity to certain smells were easy to ignore but the third month of no period was not. I knew my body was changing, my breast becoming sensitive to the touch and the sudden yet noticeable weight gain. It was evident that I was pregnant, something I told myself weeks ago, but I still tried to ignore because it couldn’t possibly be true. 

So now, here I was standing in the middle of my bathroom glaring down at the two positive pregnancy tests and the three ultrasound pictures. The doctor estimated I was roughly 12 weeks along and almost quickly, I knew who the father was. 

I’d only slept with one man the last three months and he was currently living his life in sunny Los Angeles. Yes, we had sex unprotected but I took the morning after pill as soon as I stepped foot back in Vermont, not having the time before my flight to stop and pick one up; something I made known to the doctor earlier today. 

“Those don’t work all the time. It could be that you waited too long after intercourse to take it.” 

With shaking hands, I set them down on the bathroom counter and dragged my feet over to my bedroom across the hall where my laptop sat on my desk. I knew what I had to do, me making the decision on the car ride back home from my appointment that I would keep this baby and raise it by myself if need be. I made decent money at my job so I could live somewhat comfortably. I didn’t need Matt’s help, I wouldn’t force him into something he didn’t want only for him to leave years later when it got too hard for him. 

He still deserved to know, though. So now came the hard part of finding out exactly who this Matt was. Neither of us divulged more of our lives besides our names that night so it took me some time scouring my brain to remember the name of the band the party was for. 

Good Almonds? 

Secret Omens? 

“Fuck, this pregnancy brain is no joke,” I groaned while resting my forehead on the cool wood of my desk. 

I’d also picked up one of those pregnancy books earlier and spent a few hours reading everything regarding the first trimester, which I had just surpassed. Rubbing my small bump, I sat up straighter in my chair and let my eyes flutter shut. 

“Alright baby, help me out here. Help me find your dad,” I muttered. 

Bad Omens. 

Snapping my eyes open, I hastily typed ‘Bad Omens Matt’ into google's search bar and watched as lists of websites appeared on screen, clicking on the first one.

Matt Dierkes (mattxdierkes) • Instagram photos and videos.

I let out a breath I had no idea I’d been holding and clicked through his instagram profile, not being able to hide the smile when I saw a picture of him holding a small dog against his chest. I tried to think of the best way to go about this. It would be wrong of me to send him a direct message to tell him the news, something he could easily ignore or claim was false. 

He needed to see it for himself. 

After spending a few more minutes researching, I found out that Matt was not only Bad Omens tour manager but he worked in their front of house as well and they were gearing up to head out on the road for a three week long tour across the U.S which started in two weeks.

Gnawing on my lip, I had to make a decision. Wait until he is back home to tell him or fly out to Los Angeles before he leaves to tell him. 

Clicking open a new tab, I searched up flights to California and once those were booked and paid for, I sat back in my chair and rubbed at my bump. I’d fly out next Friday evening and return Sunday morning. I couldn’t stay longer because I had work that Monday morning and I wanted to try and save up as much PTO as I could for maternity leave, my job offering a crappy version of it. 

Stretching out my limbs, I rose from the chair only to make it a few steps to my bed, falling onto it with a puff of air. Along with pregnancy brain being something I’d been suffering from, so was the exhaustion. It felt like no matter how many hours I slept at night, by 2 in the afternoon, I was ready for bed. 

Of course you’re tired, your body is growing a human.

I let the idea of me growing a tiny human made up of equal parts me and Matt lull me to sleep, those dark eyes plaguing my existence. I also couldn’t ignore the excitement that filled me knowing I’d be seeing him again. 

MATT

Music blasted through the vast opening of the warehouse as we all tirelessly worked from sunrise to sunset packing up the trucks with all of our equipment. Bad Omens were about to head out on the road next week for their first tour with the new era and we all were buzzing with excitement. The set list was stacked, the visual and mixes were some of the best I’ve created so far. I spent the entire day with a smile on my face, ready for the future of not only mine but my best friends. 

Although, it did feel like there was something missing in my life, something meaningful, but I couldn’t pinpoint on what it was exactly. 

With a stack of metal rods in my arms, the ones we use to hang up the merch tent, I stepped out of the warehouse over towards the trucks where I met Nicholas, who suddenly stood frozen while looking past me. 

“Oh please don’t tell me this is the situation I’m thinking it is and she’s here to claim it’s Noah’s.” 

With a raised brow, I slowly turned to face his gaze and sucked in a breath at the sight. Y/N stood a few feet away from the truck, wringing her hands together with nerves as her eyes darted around the bodies, trying to find a certain one. Her soft strands of hair blue over her shoulder with the unusually cool summer breeze as the bright rays from the sun casted her bare shoulders in a golden hue, yet it paled in comparison to the yellow color of her sundress that rested just above her knees. 

As my eyes traveled past the swell of her breast down to her lower half it was then that I realized exactly what Nicholas meant and I dropped all three metal rods I’d been carrying clattered to the concrete with a noise loud enough to echo blocks away. 

Everyone froze to look over at me, who had yet to remove my gaze from Y/N’s stomach as she ran a hand over it, a silent indication of what I’d been wondering to myself. Noah, who was in the truck behind me packing it, surveyed the scene in front of him, darting back and forth between me and Y/N. He muttered something under his breath before giving me a push towards her, my body still in a state of shock and I nearly stumbled over my feet. 

“Hi,” her voice shook with nerves when I stopped in front of her.

Now with the setting sun, I could see a patch of freckles covering her nose and cheeks. I noticed she had only one dimple on her left cheek when she gave me a small smile. 

But her eyes? Fuck, they still managed to pull me in nearly four months later. All I could think about was one simple thing: I hope she’s here to tell me that it’s mine.

READER

“H-hi,” Matt cleared his throat while stuffing his hands deep into the pockets of his shorts and it was then I finally noticed the colorful tattoo on his right leg. “What are you doing here?” 

Blinking away from his thighs, I rubbed a hand over my small bump. “I’m pretty sure you can guess.”

His eyes flicked down so fast I nearly missed it. “It’s mine?” 

I already told myself not to get upset when he questioned it because I knew he would. I would have been more shocked if he didn’t. 

“It’s yours, Matt. You’re the only guy I had sex with in the last four months and unprotected,” I replied. 

Matt glanced over his shoulder to one of the guys hanging out in the large truck and I recognized him from the party that December night; the one covered in tattoos. 

“I only found out last week. I guess I tried to ignore it in hopes that it was all a dream because the last thing I needed was a baby,” I admitted while shifting on my feet. 

He turned his attention back towards me. “Are you going to keep it? It’s obviously your choice. I’ll support you with whatever you decide so please don’t think I’m pressuring you into something because that’s not what I’m trying to do.”

As he rambled on, I gave a curt nod. “I do plan on keeping it. I didn’t expect to get pregnant before falling in love and getting married but when has anything in my life been traditional? I’m used to doing things on my own so this won’t be any different.”

Matt’s muscles constricted underneath his Cannibal Corpse shirt as he crossed his arms over his chest. “Who said you were doing this alone?”

“Uh. I just figured that with how busy you are that you wouldn’t want to be bothered with a kid. I only came out here to tell you in person because it felt wrong to tell you in an Instagram message.”

He snorted, nostrils flaring, and took a tentative step towards me. “You don’t think it’s wrong to make assumptions about me?” 

I chewed on the inside of my cheek and forced myself to break the intense stare down between us. Suddenly being underneath his hot gaze, I felt the pep talk I spent all afternoon telling myself slipping through my grasp. Bile rose in my throat, part because of the pregnancy and part because of the nerves I felt flowing through me. 

“You’re coming on the road with me.” 

His stern voice caused me to whirl my head back towards him, my hair flowing over my shoulders. “Excuse me? I didn’t expect you to drop everything in your life for this baby so you can’t expect me to just uproot my life to please you!”

"I've never been one to half-ass anything, Y/N!" Matt bit out with a clenched jaw. His hands were perched low on his hip as my sudden news turned his world upside down. 

My hands rested on my stomach as I took a deep breath, to calm myself. My blood pressure at my appointment last week was a little concerning so my doctor made sure to tell me to take it easy, especially in these early months. The large group of people a few feet behind him pretended to keep themselves busy with work but I knew they'd been eavesdropping since I showed up a few minutes ago. 

Matt also let out a deep breath to calm himself. "If we're going to do this then we're doing it together. But we can't do it together if you're halfway across the world from me."

I scoffed, still not quite ready to jump into the idea of packing up my life for the next month to live on the road with a man I had only met one night back in December. 

Just over three months ago.

"And if I say no?" I scoffed, my own hands perched on my hips. 

Those dark eyes sliced into me from underneath his hat and he took a step closer towards me. I could feel his warm breath across my lips and the sudden hunger to taste him again was overtaking me. 

"You're carrying my child, Y/N. There's no way I'm letting you leave now. Not again. Not like I did that night."

I wasn’t sure if it was because of the blazing sun, the nearly 90 degree heat, or the way Matt’s words cut deep that made my surroundings suddenly spin causing my body to go limp into his embrace. 

“Shit,” he cursed as he reached out to catch me from hitting the ground below and lifted my limp body into his arms. 

“I don’t feel so good,” I murmured into his neck, my body suddenly feeling clammy and drained of energy. 

“Hang on baby,” Matt cooed while carrying me into the warehouse where the cool air fell away against my still heated skin. 

Gently, he sat me down in a metal chair and cupped my cheeks so I could look at him with heavy eyes. 

“When was the last time you ate something?” He wondered. 

I blinked slowly, trying my best to keep the bile that raised in my throat down, and let out a weak response. 

“Not since this morning.” 

The words tangled together as I felt a wave of nausea wash over me and Matt cursed again while yelling something to someone, it being white noise as I felt my body growing heavier. 

“Drink some water,” Matt urged me with a hushed voice, bringing a bottle to my lips and helping me take in some, the cool liquid easing down the urge to throw up everywhere. 

Next he took a granola bar from a heavily tattooed hand and waved it in front of my nose, causing me to wretch back away from it. 

Peanut butter. 

I fucking hated the smell of peanut butter. 

“Y/N, you need to eat something,” Matt’s voice was sharp, along with his gaze on me. 

I cringed. “The baby hates peanut butter.”

He let out a low rumble of laughter before looking up at the man behind him. “Noah, can you go look in Jolly’s stash? I think I saw fruit or something in there.” 

“Oh, the baby loves bananas,” I perked up, the little bit of water intake bringing life back into me slowly. 

The man, Noah, smiled brightly before running a hand through his curtain styled hair. “One banana coming right up.”

After he dashed to the other side of the warehouse, Matt’s hands rested on my knee. 

“You can’t forget to eat, Y/N,” he sighed. 

“I’ve been feeling sick all morning and spent most of the afternoon before coming here asleep. The plane ride took a lot out of me. I guess I forgot,” I gave a limp shrug. 

Worry etched on Matt’s face as he continued to kneel in front of me. “Can you even be flying?” 

Noah returned with two bananas and I took them with a grateful smile when I noticed he even peeled them for me. 

“I can fly until I’m thirty six weeks,” I answered after swallowing two mouthfuls of banana. 

Noah stared down at me with his hands in his pockets. “How far along are you?” 

“13 weeks.” 

I could see Matt figure out the dates in his head, confirming what I had already told him. 

“Due in September?” He asked, running his fingers over my knee, leaving goosebumps in his wake. 

Even in my weak state, I couldn’t deny how much I missed his touch as I nodded. 

“September 4.”

The three of us sat in silence for a moment as I finished the bananas and drank a little bit more water. 

 “Feeling better?” Matt questioned. 

I patted his hand reassuringly. “Very much, thank you.”

Noah squeezed my shoulder with a comforting touch. “I’d never seen Matt so freaked out before.” 

Leaving us to ourselves, I met with worry behind those dark eyes of Matt’s and frowned. 

“I didn’t mean to scare you,” I breathed. 

He huffed before taking off his hat, letting it rest on my lap while he ran a hand through his hair. 

“Can you understand why I want you with me, Y/N? Imagine if this happened and no one was there to help you.”

This was the very first time one of these episodes happened and I had to admit, it scared the hell out of me so I couldn’t imagine the fear coursing through Matt when I collapsed into him. 

Playing with the rim of his hat still on my lap, I eventually nodded. “Okay. But I have to settle things back at home and my job before leaving. 

Matt did his best to hide his grin behind his hand as he scratched at his jaw, ultimately failing. 

“We don’t leave until Thursday evening next week. Will that be enough time?” 

My shoulders rose and fell. “It’ll have to be, I guess. I have some PTO from work that I can use. Do you want me to fly out back here or meet you at the first city?” 

Matt placed his hat back on his head. “I’m going to fly out to Vermont on Wednesday so we can fly out to the first city together. I don’t like the idea of you on a plane by yourself.” 

I raised a brow. “I’m literally getting on a plane tomorrow morning to fly back home. What’s the difference?” 

“The difference is,” he adjusted his weight from one foot to the other, still kneeling in front of me. “It’s too late for me to buy a ticket to come with you. Plus, I still have a lot left to do here to make sure everything is packed and loaded properly.” 

I hummed in response, eyes taking in the sight of everyone now moving about the warehouse again after realizing I was fine. They all conversed with each other, bright smiles on their faces as they understood every inside joke they shot back and forth. 

“You guys seem like a big family,” I noted. 

Matt agreed with a nod. “We are. We take care of each other.”

As the noise of everyone chatting fell around us, I fiddled with the ends of my dress, trying to gather the courage to say my next words, unsure if Matt would agree or even feel the same. 

“I want to make sure you understand that just because we’re doing this parenting thing together does not mean we're together.  We can co-parent but I’m not looking for a relationship. I’m still in the same spot when you first met me, Matt. I swore off relationships, it doesn't matter that we’re having a baby together.”

My gaze was trained hard on my chipped nail polish that I hadn’t seen the look of pure heartbreak flash over Matt’s face but he was quick to put that mask back up. 

“Whatever you’re comfortable with, Y/N. I’m not going to force anything on you. I’ll be here for you; as a friend.” 

That, however, I did not miss; the way the word friend sounded bitter on his tongue.

“Oh, I almost forgot,” I said suddenly remembering something I had hidden in my purse. 

With curious eyes, Matt took the ultrasound picture I retrieved from my purse and grazed his thumb over the black and white picture, over the small fetus. His eyes now glossy as he blew out a shaky breath. 

“That’s-?” He coughed, trying to figure out his words. 

I nodded while resting my hands over my small bump. “That’s our baby.”

Matt cast his gaze from the ultrasound to my bump, back and forth a few times almost as if he was trying to understand how the little baby in the picture was the one I was carrying. The lines next to his eyes crinkled and his bottom lip caught between his teeth. 

“If we're going to do this together, Matt, you can touch it whenever you want. You don’t need to ask. This baby is half yours,” I assured him while reaching for his hand, placing it over my bump. 

He let out a breath, finally being able to feel where his baby was, and it was as if everything was clicking into place for him. Our fingers linked together, both resting over the bundle of what we created that night together. While I hadn’t expected this outcome from me telling him, I was extremely grateful that he decided to stay with me. The fear of raising a baby on my own kept me up the last few nights. 

I had meant what I told him, though. The last thing I was looking for was a relationship to make this between us even more messier than it already was. But when Matt leaned towards my bump to whisper something, I knew those words I had just spoken to myself in my brain were only that; words. 

“Hi baby, I’m your dad.”

[timid-raccoon]

If you have Spotify reblog this and tag what your number one song on your “on repeat” playlist is.

[timid-raccoon]

So, the ERRA concert last night. First things first, I had a great time, they put on an amazing show and Jesse is an absolute beast on the guitar!

Somehow I ended up at barricade (my first time ever), even though I only got to the venue half an hour before doors and the venue was ~1000 cap. I felt a little like an imposter though, because I knew hardly any songs, but who says you can only go to concerts and be at the front when you know the band's whole discography, right?

A little context to the clip in my previous post: both JT's mic and the drummer's (Alex?) kick pedal broke one song into their set, so Jesse bridged the time with some country while they sorted that out.

At one point Jesse announced a song which he said was called "Karlsruhe" when he first wrote it because he wrote it in this city, the city of Karlsruhe, backstage at the exact venue where they were playing last night's show. The song was Vanish Canvas, which happens to be the first song I consciously heard from them and liked immediately, back when they were on BO's Veeps stream from Hollywood, so that was quite special.

I really need a phone with a better camera, the quality is so bad😭

Thank you @thefallennightmare and @burning-outx for being the final push in convincing me to go. I had a blast and would definitely do it again. ❤

And let's not forget that there were three supporting acts who all killed it as well!

@thatchickwiththecamera Here you go 😊

[timid-raccoon]

Sooo... this happened 😂

(@thefallennightmare It's me, the ERRA concert anon. More to come later or more likely tomorrow, but I'm telling you right now, I had a blast!)

[timid-raccoon]

I secured the bag, too! And not even for me but to surprise my sister🥹

And how nice of them to post that picture to revive us after the stress. 🙏

LETS FUCKING GO!

[timid-raccoon]

Well, I was not expecting to be so gently murdered on this grey Friday morning. Just Pretend [live 2024] gave me infinite shivers.

[timid-raccoon]

So, I drew this on him back when they first dropped this pic because it was just screaming for a dangly earring and I'm... 🫠

So I'm gonna need Nouh to get an ear piercing now

SAME!!!

These manga's are inspired by Noah. IDC what anyone says.

[timid-raccoon]

I was walking to the store this morning and a guy drove past me and man, he was STARING, even did a double take. I choose to believe it was because he thought I looked badass in my Bad Omens hoodie and not because I hadn't combed my hair.

[timid-raccoon]

This is so good! Love myself some angst. It hurts just the right way.

Desolate Love • N.S

Pairing: Noah Sebastian x reader (oneshot)

Words: 1.7k

Warnings: Angst, angst, angst.

Prompt: His October eyes sang secret confessions as he poured his soul into the melodies of desolate love; but you weren't meant to be sung for, even if you loved each other first.

Authors note: I have never written anything like this publically before, but I'm feeling a little sad and angsty lol. I hope you enjoy the words that came from my heart. (ps. I know many on the taglist are here for smut, and this isn’t smut, but I'm just re-using tags since I'm not sure who enjoys what! Pls let me know if you don't want to be tagged in all things!!)

Tags: @sammyjoeee @cookiesupplier @th4t-em0-k1d @dsireland86 @whenthesummerdies @spicywhenspeaking @gretaswhore28 @veronicaphoenix @lma1986 @calleyx13 @somewhere-diamond @talialovesmiw @auratheopossumwitch @blackveilomens @skulliecadaver-blog @silentglassbreak @darkmxgician

No one talks about the grief of a loss that was never yours to mourn.

He got a tattoo; a constant reminder of the pain.

A reminder of what once was.

A reminder of what would never be.

You wrote unspoken words in your diary, quarrels that would never be said aloud.

Words that confessed years of feelings, years of silenced affections.

As your fingers grazed over the pages of yearning within the leathered journal, your heart reminisced the ache for unattainable amour.

Tears pricked at your eyes as you let out a quiet sob, unsure why you were even crying for someone who was never yours.

He consumed your mind; the way he smiled at you the day you met; his contagious laughter that danced through the walls in grandeur.

“Is this Henderson’s gym class?”

The voice behind startled you, and you turned, meeting a pair of ochre eyes. The stutter that left your lips caused your face to warm in embarrassment, as the messy brunette locks that fell across the boy’s features left you captivated.

“Yeah, I think so?” Your brows furrowed as you second-guessed yourself, even though you double-checked the classroom timetable a thousand times.

His lips spread into a dancing grin, his slight buck teeth chewing playfully on his bottom lip in shyness.

“Cool,” He stuck out his hand, long fingers wrapping around yours, “Noah.”

“Y/N,” You returned the smile, your ears heating as his October gaze never left yours.

You pulled away, briefly glancing down at his shirt, immediately excited.

“You like blink-182?”

Noah looked down at his shirt, pointing at it, “Oh yea, I fucking love them.”

He glanced up at you, fixated, “Do you?”

You nodded excitedly, “They’re probably my favourite band at the moment, other than the 1975, and Oasis, and-” you began to ramble, but stopped, afraid to embarrass yourself anymore than you felt you had.

Something flickered within his eyes at that moment; something you never noticed.

“Wonderwall?” He asked.

A song that became yours.

The burned CD he gave you collected dust in the corner of your room, aged and scratched from years of use. The disk player sat untouched, left as a painful reminder from when the tunes that played were melodies of hope; melodies of elation.

These feelings of grief consumed you, engulfing you into an overwhelming feeling of remorse.

The waves of heartbreak came and left, nostalgia shielding your anguish when memories flooded in.

No one ever filled you with such devotion and desire as he did; and throughout the naivety, you could have sworn it to be love.

It was the way Noah would shout your name from across the room when he saw you, or the way he would cover your eyes, asking you to guess who.

Every time you would laugh, placing your hands on top of his, saying you weren’t sure.

But you knew every time.

His long fingers would twirl your hair when he sat behind you in class, tugging the strands playfully before running his nails over your scalp.

“I just like your hair,” He’d say.

And whenever he picked up his guitar in the band room, he would strum the chords to your song, as if inviting you to listen to his lyrical confessions.

His texts consisted of using silly nicknames, and an overload of emojis to express his feelings. It was over the top, almost as if he was afraid he never came across as genuine enough without them.

Late night conversations went on for hours, laughing at the random stories and memories exchanged through flirtatious banter. You wanted to tell him everything about you, and learn everything about him.

You wanted to know his favourite colour, and what cologne he wore. His goals and dreams intrigued you, his fears and dislikes alluring.

You began to like the things he did, just to have something to talk about. You watched the shows he recommended and googled the things you didn’t know. Anything for him.

Noah would tell you how proud he was of you if you shared an accomplishment, or how pretty you looked when you wore your hair down.

He told you he loved your sneakers, and the way your oversized sweaters engulfed your body.

“You could wear mine,” He said, “You look good in my clothes.”

He would grab your hands, drawing silly pictures in Sharpie. It always left you frustrated when the image of an scribbled smiley face barely faded with each scrub.

But really, you would stare at it in admiration, blushing at the thought of his fingers brushing against yours.

“You like him, don’t you?” Your best friends pried, causing you to flush in embarrassment.

“He doesn’t like me like that,” You sighed, shaking your head, “We’re just friends.”

Just friends don’t play with each others hair like that.

Just friends don’t call each other pretty.

Just friends don’t text each other all night long.

“Is it easier to just pretend?”

Time went on, and your heart fluttered at every smile Noah shared with you, and at every word you exchanged.

The daily good morning and goodnight texts left you melting, succumbing your heart to his as he claimed it for his own.

Deep down, you knew he liked you more than just a friend. The way he treated you was special; there was no way that was how friends treat friends.

N: “Hey, your crush 100% likes you back.”

You: “Uhh hey? How would you know?”

N: “Well, I know who you like.”

You: “I guarantee you don’t.”

N: “Hmm, but I do? And I know he likes you back.”

You: “Sure Noah, haha. Go to bed.”

N: “I’m just saying. He likes you. Goodnight Y/N <3”

With a spiralling mind, your heart hammered.

Did he know how you felt about him? Did he just confess his feelings?

Hope.

It wasn’t until he pulled you into the storage closet a week later, that sorrow knocking down any previous signs of faith.

Torn.

“Y/N, I just wanted to talk… but I know you have feelings for me.”

His eyes bore into your own, sorrowful and sullen.

“Look,” he began, grabbing your hands in his, eyes glancing at your entwined fingers, “I- I just promised myself to someone else. My girl- ex-girlfriend, is coming here, and the reason we broke up was because I transferred.”

He began to ramble, unable to look into your eyes as he confessed his worries. Your heart began to shatter as you forced a small smile. Pulling your hands from his you placed them on his shoulders, causing him to pause.

“Noah,” You said softly, the words leaving your mouth a blatant lie, “It’s ok. I understand.“

His shoulders fell as he watched you. He brought you into a hug, squeezing you against his body, holding onto you.

Ludicrous. Empty.

You cried, your knees held to your chest in comfort as a shield from the feelings of abandonment. How could you be so naive?

You: “Just wanted to say thank you for telling me. I’m sorry if my feelings complicate things, I care about you a lot Noah.”

N: “I’m sorry, for everything. You mean a lot to me, and I care about you. ”

You: “If you knew who I liked all along… why did you say that my crush liked me back?”

It took him almost an hour to respond.

N: “Because I do like you Y/N. I like you a lot… but I promised myself to someone.”

The tears that fell from your face that night left you parched and broken, your world-shattering.

You found someone else a year later. Love that fulfilled your every need, someone to cherish you for you. It was someone who gave you everything; but your mind selfishly always wandered back to him.

You didn’t know that the day he found out you became spoken for, was the day he broke into a million pieces from a whole.

His heart was mutilated, head spinning with uncontrollable thoughts of regret.

How could he have let you slip through his fingers? All for some what-ifs?

He pretended to be happy for you.

Years passed, and you both grew. Both changed, both matured.

You got a ring, and Noah played in a band. You went to every show, you still showed up, even though you knew you were always a second choice.

He watched you the whole time as his fingers traced the strings of the guitar, and your heart yearned for him; screaming and aching and crying that you were just a body in the room.

It wasn’t until he found someone, that you told yourself it wasn’t healthy to fixate on past uncertainties.

It was rare you went to shows now. But when you did, you watched as he stood on that stage and sung; his smile brilliant and just for her.

But then you would meet his gaze, and you knew that the ochre was always for you. Forever yours.

His October eyes sang secret confessions as he poured his soul into the melodies of desolate love.

But you weren’t his: you weren’t mean’t to be sung for.

Some nights you called him drunk. You told him you missed him, that you wanted him to know you think about him all the time.

He told you he missed your voice, and how he wished you two still called.

He said he was happy you found someone to love you, because you deserved to be loved.

You knew he was lying.

It was the last time you talked, until you saw him sitting in the audience as you walked down the aisle, marrying a man you loved. A man who promised himself to you forever. A man who chose you first. A man who was not him.

Noah asked for your hand, he asked you for a dance. Your bodies swayed one last time in a synchronized beat, but just as friends; as desolate lovers.

You never listened to Wonderwall again.

Tears pricked at your eyes as you let out a quiet sob, unsure why you were even crying for someone who was never yours. You were meant to be happy now.

As your fingers grazed over the pages of yearning within the leathered journal, your heart reminisced the ache for unattainable amour.

A reminder of what would never be.

A reminder of what once was.

Noah got a tattoo; a constant reminder of the pain.

No one talks about the grief of a loss that was never yours to mourn.

[timid-raccoon]

Burning Out • VIII

Pairing: Noah Sebastian x Fem!Reader

I was lost, but now I'm found Under the lights and in the sounds So let us sing and sing it loud That we're not perfect, but we're proud of who we are.

Noah Sebastian is lost. His crime-filled lifestyle is anything but perfect; but everything changes once he meets you.

Words: 5k

Warnings: 18+, explicit language, mentions of suggested abuse, mentions of weapons, kidnapping/restraints.

Authors note: Chapter Eight - The Drain: thanks for waiting so patiently for me to update beautiful humans <3

Tags: @crimson-calligraphyx @lma1986 @spicywhenspeaking @sammyjoeee @shilohrosechicken @princessmarshmallowx @laurpartyprogram @cookiesupplier @nojoyontheburn @lacktoesandtoddlerant @veronicaphoenix @er3nslovergirl @cncohshit @thescarlettvvitch @scrumptiousfestivalpost @melcchs @flowery-mess @mentallynot-here @judging-from-afar @darkmxgician @badomensls @hoe-for-daddywise @philomenie @xxkittenkissesxx @venturethroughtheveil

THIS IS A FANFICTION USING REAL PEOPLE IN A FICTIONAL SITUATION! I AM NOT IMPLYING THESE PEOPLE WOULD DO THE THINGS IN THE STORY OR ACT THE WAY THEY DO IN THE STORY IN REAL LIFE! IT IS FICTION! IT IS JUST FOR FUN! <3

+++++

I picked at the grass for a moment, playing nervously with the strands I pulled from the dirt, “she’s gone. I don’t know how to find her.”

My vision blurred as silent tears fell, and my head bowed again.

“I miss you, mom.” I used my sleeve to dry my cheeks, “and you, dad.”

The three of us sat in silence, the trees above the courtyard singing with the autumn air. I spoke to them for a few more minutes. I tried to make it quick, knowing that if I stayed longer I wouldn't be able to leave.

“I hope you get to meet her someday,” I murmured as I stood, dusting off my pants.

“I’d like to hear about this girl.”

My stomach dropped as I whipped around in alarm, my heart thumping rapidly once I met his silver completion.

+++++

U̧̢̼̹͓͇̮͈͕̰͑͗ͭ̂̐̓̾̇̑̀̑̌̅̈͟͢͞Ń̷̙͎͍̘͈̰̫̫̭̼͇̻̱͈̝̇͐̌ͧͥ̅͑̏̈̐̉ͫ͝͡͠K̷̴̷̸͇̤̝̥͓̤̖̣̇̏ͭ̇̇̍ͨ͞_̸̸̨̡͎̭̄NͨO̅͆WͨŅ̷̢̮̣̰͚̝̮ͫ̑̾ͤ͌̉̀ͧͪͅͅ

Soon, I’ll kill my final piece of evidence… and soon, I’ll have control of Fidelio.

+++++

RUFFILO

I paced around the room with my phone in hand, Jolly and Folio’s eyes following me with every step. Juice mewed from Folio’s lap, and I sighed, staring at the screen. Not even a cat could make me feel better right now.

I ran my thumb across the glass to refresh the app once more. No new messages. Clicking the call button for the hundredth time I almost screamed once it rang until voicemail again.

“Noah’s been gone for hours.” I swallowed harshly, “and there’s still no trace of Y/N.”

“Nicky-” Jolly began, standing up from the couch to place a soothing hand on my shoulder, stopping my pacing briefly, “I’m sure Noah’s fine- he’s probably freaking the fuck out looking for Y/N. Maybe even went to the cafe and Sammy’s to fill her bosses in…”

My stomach sunk at his words, and my mind began to race. Something didn’t feel right. I knew Noah, and something felt wrong. He told me he was going to go to the cemetery to clear his mind- and I don’t think he wouldn’t go find Y/N by himself, not after everything that happened. He knew we were stronger in a group.

I shook my head, refreshing my phone for the hundredth time before moaning in frustration, “No. I think he’s in trouble.”

“He’s probably still at the cemetery,” Nick reassured me, standing up with Juice in his arms.

“Can we go look?” I asked, eying both of them as I pressed call, ringing Noah again. No answer.

“He took Y/N’s car so we’d have to walk…” Jolly groaned.

Nick snorted, “Walking is for plebs. Let’s just Uber.”

“Really?” I sighed, giving my brothers a look of relief that they’d come with me.

Jolly laughed, patting my back as we grabbed our shoes, “If it eases your mind seeing him talking to some headstones, then let’s go.”

I threw him a look, glaring, “You know it’s not just any headstone.”

“I know, Nicholas. I know.” Jolly reassured me and I nodded curtly.

We arrived at the cemetery half an hour later, and Y/N’s car was still in the parking lot. A spark of hope filled my mind as we wandered down the overgrown path- however the air felt heavy and still as my throat clenched in anticipation.

The closer we got to Noah’s parents, the more hopeless I felt, as he wasn’t anywhere to be seen.

“I don’t see him,” I mumbled, walking with haste down the path.

The graves were now in sight and I sucked in a breath, shaking my head. Even though the car was still here, something was wrong.

There was a fresh set of white flowers scattered across the front of the graves, the vase that normally sat between the stones lying on the drying grass.

“He could have just left,” Nick chimed in, placing a hand on my shoulder.

“Without the car?” I shrugged him off, pointing at the flowers, “He wouldn’t have laid them out like that. Why is the vase knocked onto the ground?”

Squinting my eyes at something that lay a few feet away from the stone, I felt my chest warm, my head beginning to shake. My limbs halted and I watched Jolly brush past me, his head tilting as he bent down, picking up the black object.

“Is this-” He began, flipping it in his hand, inspecting the singular sneaker.

“Noah’s,” I said, my stomach dropping.

Folio shrugged, “It could be anyone’s.”

I reached for the shoe, pointing to the hole that was beginning to form on the toe, “No this is one hundred percent Noah’s- the hole forming? He’s had this pair of vans for over a year. Plus, they’re a size twelve.” I peeled back the tongue, analyzing the faded tag.

“How would he lose a shoe here?” Folio asked.

“He wouldn’t,” Jolly said, looking around the cemetery, his body turning quickly as he scoped out the trees, “He would have taken it off on purpose.”

I turned around, my mind beginning to spiral. First Y/N, now Noah.

He had to have been taken.

“Do you think he’s leaving a clue?” I whispered, staring at my brothers before glancing at the grass, my feet carrying me further into the cemetery.

“Those twins must’ve taken him,” Folio spit angrily, his fists clenching.

I watched Jolly as he leaned around the headstones, his fingers tracing the rock for any signs Noah may have left, before picking up one of the flowers. He twirled it between the pad of his thumb and index finger, staring at the dishevelled petals.

“There aren’t enough flowers here to be a full bouquet, and some of the petals are ripped…” Jolly’s eyes locked with mine briefly before I scanned the ground and trees, landing on a speck of white in the distance.

I pointed as my feet carried me towards the spec, “There.”

A few petals were dispersed down the path, and as I peered ahead, another sprinkle of white caught my gaze.

“I think he’s left a trail,” I said, my breathing becoming erratic as my eyes widened, fear sinking in.

“Well, what are we waiting for?” Nick jogged up to me, pushing my shoulder to send me forward.

The three of us ventured deeper into the graveyard, passing various weathered tombstones, and surveying the ground every few feet for new petals. The further we walked, the more sparse the trail became. Eventually, it stopped altogether.

“Should we keep going?” Jolly asked, pointing to the gate that was open at the back of the cemetery.

Shrugging my shoulders, I kept walking, “We might as well.”

+++++

Y/N

The room lights flickered in a staggered pattern, the yellow tint that created shadows against the wall causing my head to spin. The room was stuffy and damp, an eternal sense of hopelessness radiating from the aura within.

I coughed, my tear-stained eyes squeezing shut as I lay on the motel bed, my limbs tied down. I tugged for the hundredth time, the rope digging into the wound that had formed from the tension.

I’ve been here for what felt like an eternity, but was really only two days.

Two days of complete hell.

The motel door clicked open and I winced in fear but relaxed slightly once I saw it was Kiean. He emerged, holding a bag of fast food.

The aroma made my mouth begin to water, but I swallowed away the hunger, attempting to push away the urge. The sounds that erupted from my stomach gave me away as Kiean locked the door, his head tilting to the side in worry.

“Are you finally going to agree to eat?” He sighed, tossing the key onto the rickety wooden table that was near the wall in front of the bed. I avoided his gaze, my mouth shut, refusing to talk.

The blonde walked over to me, the ice in the soft drink chittering against the paper cup as he placed it on the nightstand. He then opened the brown paper bag, pulling out some fries and some chicken strips.

“I got your usual…” Kiean tried giving me a small smile, but I turned my head. He sighed again, sitting on the edge of the bed. I pulled against the rope to push myself away from his presence, but my leg was stuck touching his back. The contact made my skin burn in fury.

“I even got your favourite sauce.”

Old friends, same disease I'm killing myself again Old friends, same to me I can't get away from it

I sent a glare in his direction as my stomach churned again, rumbling from the delicious, greasy scent. I felt sick from how hungry I was, and my throat felt dry from the lack of water.

Kiean watched me with concern as he unwrapped the straw and placed it into the drink, holding it up to my mouth.

“Drink Y/N, for fucksake.”

The paper brushed against my lips and I squeezed them together, closing my eyes in resentment. He held the cup for almost a minute before I broke, taking the straw into my mouth and sucking up the liquid. I downed the entire thing, gasping for air once I stopped.

“Thank you,” Kiean murmured, opening the box of chicken strips and sauce. I tugged at the rope again before wincing as it dug into the laceration that formed.

Kiean’s brows furrowed as he stared at my wrist, before holding the strip to my mouth for me. No longer able to resist I took a bite and almost moaned at the flavour, swallowing greedily.

“Stop tugging on the rope,” He almost pleaded, “I’m sorry it’s hurting you. Kade would kill me if I took them off.”

Old friends are just a memory That I didn't need

His green eyes bore into me with unease, “You know how he is.” Yeah, I do.

We sat in an uncomfortable silence for a while as he fed me. I was grateful for the food nonetheless, despite them kidnapping me and tying me to a bed frame. I don’t think I could have made it much longer without eating.

One question frequented my mind, and as much as I didn’t want to talk, I knew that deep down I was safer with Kiean than his brother; and I was afraid that at any moment, he would step through the door.

“Where is Kade?”

Kiean’s head snapped toward me in shock, surprised that I finally spoke.

“Oh- he’s out right now,” Kiean shrugged, turning his gaze to the floor, “I think he’s looking for your boyfriend.”

My heart clenched in worry, mind wandering to Noah and the boys. Were they okay after the crash? Were they hurt?

Were they looking for me?

“He’s not my boyfriend,” I mumbled, staring at the blonde. He turned to face me, eyes analyzing my expression. His pupils dilated in knowing, his stillness a telltale sign he knew something was up.

Kiean was always able to read through me.

“But you have feelings for him,” He said as we watched each other, the gaze between us speaking for me.

I tried my best to remain stiff, but I nodded, tears beginning to well in my eyes.

“I know why you left Y/N,” Kiean looked away, looking at his hands that were folded in his lap, playing with his fingers, “and I don’t blame you for leaving.”

“I couldn’t handle it anymore. So many people were hurt. So many people dead.” I whispered, my voice wavering. I blinked in an attempt to hide my tears, but that only made them fall down the skin of my cheeks.

Kiean picked at his nails, “I’m not gonna lie, you fucked us over.”

My mouth formed a straight line as I stared at the patterned bedsheets.

“The whole syndicate fell once you left. Matt followed. Then Orie, then Bryan. Our organization collapsed after you disappeared…and the Rule Maker took over. You know how much that would have pissed Kade off.”

My body stiffened at the mention of the Rule Maker. He was the biggest crime syndicate in North America other than us; always trying to take Fidelio down.

“Once business shifted and we tried building up again- but since we lost the crew it was almost impossible. We became petty dealers for a bit, but no one wanted to deal with Kade anymore. So, we’ve been working under the Rule Maker as the foxes.” Kiean sighed.

“And he’s blamed me for everything,” I laughed bitterly.

Kiean nodded, “I mean, our business fell apart once you left Y/N. We have nothing now.”

“So you blame me too?” I asked, glaring at him. Kiean didn’t say anything.

“It’s not my fault I didn’t want to be part of that shitty lifestyle anymore. I was tired of being used, and I was tired of being part of a problem,” my voice began to rise, “So many people got hurt, and I did some heinous things. I needed out, especially after everything with Kade happened.”

“Kade has issues, I know… but he loves you Y/N-”

“Oh fuck off!” I yelled, my body pulling against the restraints in frustration, “Don’t you dare say he loves me.”

My chest heaved as venomous words left my tongue, “What he did to me was not love. I wish he was dead.”

“Look-” Kiean placed a hand on my own, which caused me to flinch. I tried pulling away, but couldn’t due to the ropes grasp, “I know you’re angry. You hate him, and you hate me, but we need your help.”

“Why would I ever help you,” my teeth clenched in animosity.

Kiean watched me carefully, “You put that mask back on for your friend.”

I avoided his gaze once again.

“You knew we’d be able to find you, and you knew Kade would come in a heartbeat…So why did you risk everything you ran from, for him? If you were so done with this life, why are you willing to return for this guy?”

“I don’t know,” I whispered, “He needed help.”

“Y/N,” Kiean’s green irises begged, “If you’re willing to help someone you just met, can’t you help us? Help me?”

Kiean knew he was my weakness. He had always been there to save me from Kade’s hands. He protected me and kept me safe, despite how awful life was back in Canada. He was my best friend. He was my brother.

“We’re going to take down the Rule Maker,” He said firmly, standing up from the bed now.

“Excuse me?” I scoffed, a laugh almost escaping my lips from disbelief, “What?”

Kiean turned to the closer in the motel room, pulling out three fox head masks. Kiean’s, Kade’s, and…

“Yours,” Kiean said, holding up one of the masks. The silver paint glinted slightly from the flickering yellow motel light.

“We need your help, just this one last time. I promise we’ll leave your life for good if you help us.”

I stared at the mask, almost rolling my eyes, “And if I say no?”

The motel door opened, and I sucked in an anxious breath. Kade slammed the door, his expression furious as his sweat-stained hair hung over his forehead. My limbs warmed nervously as my lungs collapsed, air unable to escape.

I can't be saved Reaching for the life we threw away

Had he been listening this whole time?

“Then I’ll kill you, and your little fuck toy,” Kade seethed, lifeless orbs glaring in my direction.

Watching as it circles in the drain With everything I loved, that's gone to waste With everything I was but couldn't change

+++++

NOAH

It was the fear of the unknown that amplified the sense of vulnerability and helplessness I felt. Being at the mercy of someone else and unable to anticipate their next move, left me terrified and completely hopeless.

The blindfold that covered my vision left me anxious as my body thrashed back and forth from the restraints that tied my arms back, the metal cold against my skin. As I attempted to wiggle free the chains that held me swung against the chair, clanging in my ears. The wind whistled around the building I must’ve been in, causing me to shiver.

I screamed angrily, swinging aimlessly before the chair toppled over and I landed on the cement ground with a thud, the side of my head smacking into the pavement.

I didn’t necessarily believe in a God- but I prayed.

I prayed that Y/N was okay and that she knew I was sorry for everything.

I prayed that whatever happened to me, my brothers knew I loved them. That they knew how sorry I was that our lives were ruined because of me.

I prayed that they would be able to find the trail I left behind.

Old friends, same disease I can't get away from it Old friends, same as enemies

“There’s no way you pulled that pharmacy heist off by yourself,” Anger seeped through every word, every syllable.

“Who is she?”

I laughed, my body aching against the ground as I continued wrestling the chains, “You underestimating me?”

The man growled, pushing my face into the cement forcefully, causing me to laugh in resentment. Even through the blindfold, I could tell a snarle was embedded on his face.

“I stole your fucking car at fourteen. I can do anything I need to myself.”

“You sure about that?” I felt my body swing back up from the ground, two sets of hands sitting me upright in the chair.

“Who was wearing the Volto mask?”

I'm killing myself again I'm killing myself again I'm killing myself

“Fuck that I know,” I jeered, “What’s with the theatrics of all this?”

With my question ignored, I felt something cold and sharp press against my arm, “How do you know Y/N Y/L/N?”

I tried to not let my sarcastic smile fade at the mention of her name, “Who?”

“I’m not stupid boy,” The man yelled, a stinging warmth bolting up my arm, causing me to scream.

“Fuck!” I hollered, attempting to pull away, but I couldn’t move, nor see. Hands held my shoulders in place.

“I did some digging. You didn’t just break into her house, No,” he laughed, “No, you’ve been living there.”

I can't be saved Reaching for the life we threw away Watching as it circles in the drain

Why was he asking about the mask and Y/N?

My mind wandered back to Vincent, recalling our conversation days prior.

“Heads, you tell me about your little friend Y/N.”

My gaze narrowed and my fists clenched at the mention of her name. What did he want with Y/N?

“Tails, you tell me about your masked friend.”

Vincent said his boss wanted to know.

“So tell me,” I felt the blade dance across my skin, threatening, “Is she my missing mask?”

With everything I loved, that's gone to waste With everything I was but couldn't change

+++++

RUFFILO

“So, who do you think Y/N is?” Folio asked as we walked down the street. We finally found another set of crumpled petals on the sidewalk past the cemetery, and have been following the road ever since.

“What does that mean?” My brows furrowed in his direction.

“Well,” He jeered, “The fact that two masked men chased us down, stole Y/N and now Noah, AND she is some badass hacking-heist guru? Doesn’t seem like some ordinary 9-5 barista if you ask me.”

I shrugged, “Well I don’t know. The only thing she ever mentioned to me was that she was running from who she used to be and that she was afraid we’d judge her.”

“She took us in without a thought,” Jolly piped in, “Maybe she had a similar lifestyle. No one would just take in a group of criminals.” He then stopped walking, reaching into his pocket.

Jolly stared at his screen confused, “Vincent?”

Putting the phone against his ear he watched us, a confused look glazing over his features. I stood closer to him, trying to listen in on the conversation. Jolly rolled his eyes, pushing me gently.

“Fuck you calling me for? I don’t have shit bro.”

“Yo, you know where Noah is? Did this asshole flake?”

“Why?” Jolly asked, “You were supposed to meet him?”

“Yea, he had more shit for me- didn’t show up at the ally. Thought that maybe I scared him off since the last time we talked.”

“Well, he didn’t show up because he’s fucking missing.”

“Missing? The hell you mean missing.”

“Missing as in we have no idea where the fuck he is, and we think he was kidnapped; so your deal’s gonna have to wait.”

“Wait- I think I know who may have taken him.”

Immediately I stepped back to share a look with Jolly and Nick. Did Vincent know the twins?

“Shit I gotta go. Meet me at the pier in 20.”

I heard the phone beep and Jolly stared at the screen in confusion, “Folio?”

Nick hummed, “What?”

“Did Noah ever use his first name when dealing with Vincent?”

“I don’t know,” he shrugged, shaking his head, “Pretty sure I told him to just go by Sebastian.”

Jolly shoved his phone back into his pocket, pushing past us and walking quickly down the street, “Seems to me Vincent may be more involved in this.”

+

We practically had to run to make it to the pier in twenty minutes since the cemetery was so far away, and travelling by foot was not ideal. It was windy and cold, the water droplets being swept up by the gusts of air slapping me in the face, causing me to shiver.

A man leaned against the pier, his arms resting over the wooden railing as he stared off into the water. He turned to face us, sharing a small smile as he stood up straight.

“Jolly? Folio?” He acknowledged them, and Jolly whistled in response.

“Strange seeing you unmasked.”

“Well, I’m not going to wear it where everyone can see us,” He threw his hood over his head, shielding himself from the wind.

“So what do you mean you think you know who took Noah?” I asked.

He looked at me, thick brows sitting heavily above his eyes, “Who are you?”

“Nicholas. Ruffilo.”

“Ah,” Vincent mumbled, “The one that convinced Jolly to stop selling to me in the first place all those years ago.”

I rolled my eyes in annoyance. Jolly placed a supportive hand on my shoulder.

“It was a mutual agreement, Vince. You know why we stopped, we got a new boss.”

“Yeah, whatever,” He huffed, leaning against the railing once again, “Well speaking of bosses, I think mine took him.”

“Is your boss a set of twins that wear these stupid fox masks?” Nick asked.

Vincent laughed, raising a brow, “Uh, no. But that’s interesting.”

Jolly, Nick and I looked at each other. So who took him if it wasn’t the twins?

“Who is your boss?” I asked.

With a shrug, Vincent turned to look out at the water again, “I dunno. I’ve never met him before, and we only communicate through his little henchmen. We call him the Rule Maker.”

“The Rule Maker?” Jolly laughed for a moment, before his smile faded, “Wait you mean to tell me, THE Rule Maker?”

“Who is that?” I asked, feeling out of the loop.

Folio ran his hands through his hair, “Only like the biggest drug lord in North America.”

“Well, why would he kidnap Noah? We haven’t done much related to drugs in years, other than the past month”

Vincent shrugged, “I got asked a shit ton of questions the other day by one of his minions. He wanted to know about the person who did the heist with him, since the mask they were wearing belonged to the missing member of Fidelio.”

I glanced at Folio and Jolly briefly, catching their eyes.

“Fidelio- that was a drug syndicate in Canada, right?” Jolly asked.

Vincent nodded, “Yep. Guess that was the first time that mask was seen in months. Then my boss went on asking about some chick named Y/N Y/L/N.”

Now my eyes widened and I physically turned to my brothers, both matching my expression.

“Ah- so you do know her,” Vincent began.

“I mean-” Nick scratched his neck.

“Well, my boss knows her. He has been looking for her for years,” Vincent sighed, “So, Sebastian knows Y/N, and has a connection to the Volto mask. Yada yada, the boss wants answers that I couldn’t get out of Noah the other day. So he probably took him.”

I ran a hand over my face, groaning audibly. This is bad.

Jolly stared at me concerned, “Y/N is the missing member of Fidelio. The timeline would add up.”

Fuck.

“Interesting,” Vincent chimed in, “So it’s the same person. That girl is the mask.”

“Well, did your boss say how he knows her?” Nick questioned.

The dealer shook his head, “Nope. And I don’t know where Sebastian would be either- but I think that’s who took him.”

“Why are you helping us?” I said warily.

Vincent smiled, his grillz shining against the setting sun, “Well, he provided good business. I got paid well.”

“I don’t know how we are supposed to find him though,” Nick said, “We were following a trail of flowers for a bit.”

Wait… following…

“Oh my god,” I smacked my forehead in annoyance, “Our trackers!” I lifted my pant leg, showing it off to the boys.

I wasn’t sure how we didn’t realize it sooner, but Noah still had his tracker attached to his ankle. At least, I hoped.

“How are we supposed to track it? It was Y/N who had the system,” Jolly said.

“Noah’s number might still be on her laptop. It’s worth a shot.”

+++++

Y/N

“Where is your laptop?” Kade asked, sitting across the room. His back sunk into the chair as he glared at me.

“Why would I tell you?” I spat.

He snickered, running his fingers through his blonde locks, “Do you have a fucking death wish?”

I snarled at him, “It’s not my fault you didn’t lock down your system well enough. Figure it out yourself.”

“Well, I didn’t exactly expect you to stab me in the back and wipe everything from us.” He shared a pathetic, cold smile.

“Y/N,” Kiean pleaded, and I rolled my head to look at him. He sat on the other bed, eyes begging, “Just cooperate. Like I said, if you help we will leave your life forever.”

“How am I supposed to know that’ll happen?” I mocked, “You chased me and my friends, almost killed us in a car crash with guns, and fucking kidnapped me?”

The room was silent for a moment before Kade spoke up.

“I just want my fucking business back.” He growled, “So like I said, help me, or he is dead.”

I swallowed harshly, knowing that Kade’s threats were never empty. He always followed through with them, and I know he most certainly would kill him.

I didn’t want to help them… but I didn’t want to risk Noah’s life.

“It’s at my place,” I sighed.

Kade stood up, clapping his hands together, which caused me to close my eyes and flinch, “Then let’s go.”

+

We pulled up to my house in a car the Twins rented. I picked at the bandages that Kiean had wrapped around my wrists to prevent the wounds from getting infected, wincing.

As we sat outside the front my stomach churned, worried the boys would be there. As much as I wanted them to be, so they could get me out of this situation; I knew if they were, that they’d be in danger.

“Are your boyfriend’s minions home?” Kade spat, turning off the engine.

“How am I supposed to know, I’ve been held hostage.” I sneered.

Kiean shot me a look and I rolled my eyes before the three of us headed to the door.

Kade had taken my key and unlocked the house, stepping inside quietly. The twins listened for movement and I looked around, the boys’ shoes missing.

“I don’t think they’re home,” I said. The twins nodded to each other, following me up the stairs to my room. Juice mewed behind, following us.

Once we entered I went to my desk, pulling the laptop off the charger. I handed it to Kiean who opened it, prompting me to type in my password.

“So now what?” I asked just before the front door opened.

The twins glanced at each other, holding a finger to their lips and my breath quickened, listening to the voices of the boys. They were here.

“So where is her laptop?”

“Probably upstairs. C’mon.”

Was Noah here too?

The shuffle of various sets of footsteps ran up the stairs and as soon as Folio turned the corner he let out a surprised yelp when our eyes met briefly.

“Y/N!” He screamed, taking a step forward before Kade cocked his pistol, holding it straight ahead.

“What the fuck-” I heard Ruffilo and saw him peer behind the corner, his eyes widening once he saw me.

“Move, or I’ll shoot,” Kade threatened, gripping my wrist and I winced. I saw Folio and Ruffilo raise their hands in surrender and Kade pulled me out of the room, past the boys. However as we exited the room and I saw Jolly, I then made eye contact with someone I didn’t know- and there was no Noah to be seen.

I pulled against Kade as he tried prying me down the stairs, gun still pointed towards the boys.

“Wait-” I begged, causing Kade to stop, “Where’s Noah?”

As I stared up at Ruffilo from the stairs his gaze made my heart sink.

“He was kidnapped,” Ruffilo muttered.

“C’mon,” Kade spoke through gritted teeth, giving zero fucks about Noah. We reached the bottom of the stairs and Kiean pushed me softly toward the door.

“What?” I yelled back, complete worry taking over me, “By who?”

“The Rule Maker,” Jolly hollered back, and the twins stopped at the door, sharing a look.

I can't be saved Reaching for the life we threw away Watching as it circles in the drain With everything I loved, that's gone to waste With everything I was but couldn't change

+++++

Chapter 9 coming soon

[timid-raccoon]

The Drain is a fucking banger. I love it when musicians collab on a track and it's not just an artist singing a verse on another artist's song, but you can hear elements of everyone who's participating in everything. This song does just that. I'd never heard anything from SWARM before, so I didn't know about his part, but to me the song immediately sounded so much like Bad Omens and HEALTH at the same time, it's amazing. And the TDOPOM humming melody that they sprinkled in there, just perfect.

[timid-raccoon]

It's 27°C, the sun is shining, there's a slight breeze, I've got a summer playlist on and I've been in such a good fucking mood all day today, it's absolutely disgusting.

[timid-raccoon]

put in the tags:

your first concert

your last concert

your next concert

your favourite concert

[timid-raccoon]

Tag List: @cheyfi @kingdomof-omens @daylightlvrs @blade-in-red @jay02bo @itsmrsfuentes @cncohshit @catj422 @lma1986 @chels3a-smile @kiwi475 @cookiesupplier @timid-raccoon

A/N: I've had this in my drafts for a month lol I'm so sorry.I hope y'all enjoy 🖤 Sexual content.

Early August. Third trimester; 35 weeks. My doctor told me to rest, but it's just not that simple when you own a bakery on Sunset Boulevard in LA, and it's the middle of the summer. Business was booming from summertime festivities, and there were orders that needed to be fulfilled before we closed early for the day—today was my baby shower.

I peered through the entryway from the back of the bakery, stealing a glance out the window. The sun beat down on the stream of passersby, adorned in shorts and sundresses, sunglasses and bright smiles on their faces as they soaked in the sun. I could only imagine how hot it was outside, and it made me oh so very thankful for the tree in our backyard, knowing I'd be spending the majority of the day out there for the shower. At least that way I'd have some shade.

I sighed and made my way back to my station in the back, picking up where I had left off. I twirled the flowering nail between my thumb and index finger, working on putting together yet another rose for a cake that a customer had ordered.

"So, you have any names picked out, Liv?" Juliana sidles up beside me, and I shake my head. "No, but we have a middle name. Nicholas." I tell her, a subtle smile spreading on my lips as I finished the last layer of the flower. I slide the rose onto the cake, adjusting it accordingly before turning my attention towards her cheery face. "That's Noah's best friend." "Aww," she breaks out into a smile that spread from ear to ear. "That's so sweet!" "Yeah," I let out a bashful chuckle, "but not as sweet as this damn cake. Look at how many flowers they want!"

We both glanced down at the dessert in front of me; the entire border was littered with roses, alternating between red, orange, and yellow. It wasn't the kindest on the eyes, but I was doing exactly what the customer had asked for.

"That's a lot of frosting," Jules laughs. I snort. "Tell me about it. It looks like a wall of fire." "Does it?" I nod, knowing she can't see the colors. "Oh! Check out the cake Holly made for your baby shower!" She enthusiastically waves me on towards where Holly was stationed.

I take a peek at what she was working on and grinned—it was beautiful from what I could see. She finishes the last dollop and places the piping bag down beside it, turning towards me with a sheepish grin on her face. "What do you think, Liv?" Holly asks in her timid voice, taking a step away from it for me to take a better look.

It truly was a work of art, and I was more than grateful for her effort. It was a single tiered 8-inch round cake, walled with a baby blue that melted into white all the way around. Intricate flowers skirted the bottom, elegant swirls crawling their way up the sides, meeting with a border of clouds. The cake read 'Oh boy!’ and settled on the top was a pair of blue booties, my heart immediately swelling at the sight of them.

"It's perfect, Holly. Thank you so much!" I threw my arms around her, bringing her in for a tight hug—well, as tight as my belly would allow. "I'm so glad you like it," she tells me quietly, but I can hear the smile laced in her tone. "I was so worried it wouldn't come out the way you envisioned. It's hard guessing what colors are what," she chuckles. "Thankfully I had some assistance with the booties." I pull away, placing my hands on her shoulders with a shake of my head. "It's better than I could've imagined. I almost don't want to eat it later today, but I think he wants it...so we're going to devour it," I laugh. She giggles and thanks me before packaging it up to be taken home.

Noah

"She is going to kill us," I muttered, one arm folded across my chest as I pinched the bridge of my nose with my opposite hand. "Why is the banner pink, and why does it say 'It's a Girl'?" "Well, they didn't have any 'It's a Boy' banners left," Folio shrugs. "But don't worry, we got a plan!" He perks up, a wide smile growing on his face. "Great," I grumbled with a roll of my eyes. I turn when there's a rattle behind me, being met with Nicholas shaking two cans of spray paint, a proud smile on his face. "Don't tell me you're gonna—" "Oh, yeah. That's exactly what I'm gonna do," he smirks, popping the cap off one of them.

With the banner pulled taut, I watched as Nick worked his magic, starting with the lighter shade of powder blue—Liv's mom must've helped pick out the colors. He traced what appeared to be a cloud around the word 'girl', slowly filling the area in and covering the word up completely. It looked a little tacky, but I was trusting the process, knowing how artistic my best friend is, and went back to assist Liv's mom and Victoria with finishing up the backyard.

After another half hour or so, we collectively stood as a group, Vic and I with our arms folded over our chests as we observed the scene before us. "Well? You think she'll like it?" I asked, a bit hesitant with the outcome.

All the streamers and balloons were hung, and all the favors were laid out in their designated areas. We had a table full of refreshments, and underneath our tree we had a large cutout of a hot air balloon—blue and white striped with bundles of white balloons to mimic clouds—acting as the backdrop for Bryan to take photos when Liv was to open her gifts. Nick finished painting the banner, and it seemed to compliment the theme of the party beautifully.

Vic shrugs, bouncing her head side to side as she contemplates. "I think she might throw a bitch fit over the banner, but other than that she'll—" "I love it." I spin around, and there was Olivia waddling her way through the slider door, her dress flowing by her ankles. "Even if the banner is fucked up," she laughs, shaking her head. I puffed out a sigh of relief, returning her smile, and began walking towards her. "Fuck off, Noah. She was mine first!" I'm practically shoved to the side as Vic brushes past me, engulfing Liv in a warm embrace with her mom following suit.

The guys laugh behind me, and all I do is shake my head with a light chuckle as I watched my wife reunite with her mom and best friend. My heart swelled at the sight; with a bright smile, Liv looked as beautiful as ever in her light blue dress, peppered in a floral design, and baby's breath tucked into the neat bun atop her head to match. Tears of joy sprung in their eyes as she cupped a hand under her belly, showing off the size of her bump. Her mom and Vic both gushed and placed a hand on her belly each, surely waiting for him to kick.

I let them have their moment, turning to greet Juliana and Holly as they came in through the gate. They brought in a cake from the bakery, which admittedly looked incredible, and I thanked them before placing it on the table with the rest of the food. After introducing them to the guys, I told them to help themselves to whatever they felt like, hoping to make them feel at home since this was their first time over.

It wasn't a big get-together and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves, mingling about as Bryan clicked away on his camera to capture the day. We played games like baby trivia, guessing the baby's measurements, and guess who—which was sort of like this or that, but more so 'would mom or dad do that', and of course everyone was in favor of Liv, but it was all in good fun.

Before I knew it, it was time to open gifts, and with each and every one that was opened, the more this became real. Baby clothes, bottles, diapers, teething rings. A carseat, a tummy-time mat, a breast pump—which I had to snatch from Folio, who pulled it out and held it up against his chest and asked 'How does this work?' Everyone laughed, and I'm sure Bryan got a picture of it, but Christ I swear that man doesn't have a brain.

By the end of it all, my head was spinning. For such a small party, there were so many things gifted to us. Of course I was thankful for everything, and it was obvious the baby was already very much loved, but it just seemed like so much. Is he going to really need all these things? Was everything going to fit in the nursery? The clothes were so tiny, how is it possible for something to be so small?

Oh, God. We're a short five weeks away from Olivia giving birth. We're about to have a tiny human in our home. We still haven't finished painting the nursery or putting together the crib. Are we ready for this? Am I ready for this?

"Noah," I hear Liv call for me, and I shake my head clear before meeting her in our bedroom. "Could you help me take my shoes off?"

She sat at the edge of the bed, leaning back against her hands that were planted on the mattress. Her hair fell around her shoulders in messy waves, and her cheeks were flushed, indicating she had tried her best to take them off on her own, only for her belly to hinder her from doing so. Her dress had been lifted to the middle of her thighs, and I could see that her feet were swollen from where I stood. I knew she was embarrassed by the bashful smile playing on her lips and I crossed the short distance to join her.

"Sure, love." I grinned, cradling the back of her head to lay a kiss to her forehead before crouching down in front of her. I take her right leg in my hands and undo the strap around her ankle, carefully slipping the wedge from her foot. She sighs with relief; there was a deep indentation across the top of her foot and I frowned, knowing how hard I tried to convince her to wear flats instead. Her left foot was the same, if not a little bit more swollen.

I pressed my thumbs into the arch, slowly rolling up towards the ball of her foot, repeating this action a few times. A quiet moan slips out from her and I moved back to her right foot to do the same, her sounds music to my ears. As innocent as this was, it was going straight to my dick—her sounds, the proximity, her dress pulled up just enough for my mind to run rampant.

Slowly, my hands move up to her calf, my fingers kneading into the tense muscle. She sighs again and I bring her leg up to my lips, pressing them gently against her ankle. I inch my mouth further up her leg, my right hand sliding up and over her knee and landing on her inner thigh. "Noah," she giggles, "I only wanted you to take my shoes off." I lay one last kiss against her calf. "I know, sorry," I lower my hand, shaking my head. "I'll stop." Her legs start to separate, and I quirk an eyebrow at her as our eyes meet. She's biting her bottom lip and there's fire burning behind her oceanic eyes. "You don't have to," she tells me, maneuvering so that her leg was now out of my hold and over my shoulder.

She leans back on her elbows, spreading her legs further. Once again, my cock twitches in my pants seeing her on full display. I can't see her face clearly from the way her belly protrudes; I sit up on my knees to look at her and she winks at me. She presses her heel into my upper back, and I let out a breathy chuckle at her eagerness.

She assists in pulling her dress up further, settling it below her breasts. I grin, running my hands over her stomach before pressing a kiss against the bump and sinking back to my original position, hooking my fingers into the waistband of her panties. I begin to shimmy them down her legs, noticing that she's already starting to glisten with arousal. I smirk to myself.

I lay kisses on her legs once more, alternating between both thighs, inching up until I reach her mound and settle there for a moment or two. She's breathing heavier now, and I know she's buzzing from anticipation because of it.

Her hips rut towards me when I flick my tongue against her clit and take a moment to savor the way she tasted, licking a stripe through her folds. I palm her thighs, keeping her legs spread, and she squirms in my hold as I purposely avoid the sensitive bundle of nerves. I was being selfish, but God did she taste heavenly.

I spear her with my tongue, my nose running against her clit and she whines, her hands finding my hair. She knots her fingers at the roots, giving me a light tug, and a low growl slips from my throat from the sensation. She was telling me what she wanted without a single word, and I was going to give it to her.

I replace my tongue with a finger and a second shortly after, curling them leisurely, brushing against her spot ever-so-slightly as I coaxed a quiet moan from her. She begins to whisper my name, begging me for more, only to be cut off with a loud gasp when I brought my attention back to her clit. I massaged her with my tongue, meticulously tracing her in the way I knew that she loved. I thrusted my fingers inside of her, matching the speed of my tongue, and her hips start to lift, pressing herself further against my mouth.

I feel her walls beginning to clench around my fingers, and I groaned against her, wanting her to come undone. I needed her to, I needed to feel her release, taste her as she comes in my hand.

I encase her bud with my lips, lightly scratching my teeth against her before sucking, knowing this drove her nuts from the moan she always let out when I did. She tugs my hair once again, and a chuckle vibrates in my throat—I knew she was close. From her quickened breaths to the way she gyrated her hips against my mouth, it was only a matter of time.

With a final pull against her clit, her walls tighten around my fingers, pulsing as she comes on my hand. I groan, finding pleasure in the way her body quakes against me, savoring every last drop of her as if I were a man starved and this was the last meal on earth.

Her body relaxes, falling limp against the mattress. I pull her dress back down before standing, gazing down at Liv as she recoups. I grin; she was always so beautiful, even with her face flushed and her hair mussed, all the while panting with a satisfied curl tugging on her lips.

"Let's get you comfortable," I tell her after a few minutes, taking her hands in mine to bring her to her feet. "Wait," she giggles, dropping my hands and placing hers on my chest, looking up at me. "You don't want anything in return?" I shake my head 'no', grinning sheepishly. "No, love," I deny, my hands landing on her hips and giving her a firm squeeze. "I just wanted to make you feel good." Her cheeks tinted into a deeper shade of rose as she lets out a soft 'Oh'. I move my hands to her upper arms and give them a reassuring rub, kissing her forehead. "Arms up," I tell her gently.

She rolls her eyes, a playful pout on her face as she does as I instructed. I lift her dress up and over her head, dropping it on the floor before spinning her around to unclasp her bra and slipping it off her shoulders. She turns back towards me with a light smile and I reveled in the sight, from the glimmer in her eyes to the swell of her breasts and down to her belly.

She starts to cover herself with her arms; I knew how uncomfortable she was with her body now that she was eight months pregnant, but it was my goal to remind her just how beautiful she is. I cup her face with both hands, pressing my forehead against hers with a little shake of my head and locked my eyes with her iridescent blues.

"None of that," I whispered. "Stop trying to hide your body. You are still the most gorgeous woman to grace the earth whether you see it or not, okay?" I notice the tears starting to well in her eyes and she tries to blink them away. "I'm sorry," she says, barely audible. "Don't be sorry, love. It's my job to make you feel that you are." I lift my head from hers and brush her bangs back, kissing her forehead. "You. Are. Beautiful." I enunciate by kissing her nose and cheeks between each word. "Okay?" "Okay," she whispers, a strained giggle sounding from her.

I palm her belly, glancing down and admiring how my hand curved against it. She lays her hand atop of mine, and a smile breaks out across my face when I feel him kick. I bring my eyes back to Olivia's, and she had the same smile painted on her face.

"Let's get ready for bed, yeah?" I give her a kiss before retracting my hand and strip to my boxers. She takes my shirt from my hands and slips it on, giggling when it just barely covers her belly—my shirts used to land at the middle of her thighs beforehand. She finds a pair of shorts, lying down shortly after.

I lie down on my back, my right arm extended and patting my chest with my left hand. She wastes no time at all and shuffles closer to me, settling her leg on top of me while she rests her head on my chest. I press a kiss on the top of her head and wrap my arm around her, rubbing her shoulder lightly.

She sighs peacefully, nuzzling her face against me. "Thank you for today. Everything was beautiful." "Don't just thank me. Everyone chipped in," I tell her. "True. I guess if it weren't for Nick, we'd have had a banner that said 'It's a Girl!'," she giggles. "We have Jolly to thank for the food, Bryan for the pictures, Folio for the comedic relief." "Your mom and Vic for all the decorations, Jules and Holly for the cake. I really just made sure things were put in the right place," I shrugged my free shoulder. "Well, you all did great, and it's clear that baby is already so loved. So, thank you; all of you." "Anything for you, love."

In a matter of minutes, she was out cold. I grinned to myself, admiring the way she snoozed on top of me. Her jaw slack, the same strand of her mahogany hair that always got sucked into her mouth as she breathed, the subtle movement of her eyes shifting back and forth as she dreamed. I pressed another kiss on top of her head, sighing as I shut my eyes to try and catch some sleep.

It wasn't easy when your mind was on the fritz, mentally trying to figure out how this would all play out. Worrying if we had everything we needed—even though I'm sure we had more than enough—worrying if the room would be ready in time, worrying if we were both ready for this next step in life. Hell, we didn't even have a name picked out for him.

I don't think I'm getting any sleep tonight.

[timid-raccoon]

Happy one year anniversary to the cold which made me stay home from work which gave me time to sit down and listen to more from that one band my sister had shown me a music video of which I really liked which started my obsession with Bad Omens which hasn't stopped. So yeah. Yay for being sick (in this one particular instance only).

[timid-raccoon]

Burning Out • VII

Pairing: Noah Sebastian x Fem!Reader

I was lost, but now I'm found Under the lights and in the sounds So let us sing and sing it loud That we're not perfect, but we're proud of who we are.

Noah Sebastian is lost. His crime-filled lifestyle is anything but perfect; but everything changes once he meets you.

Words: 4.6k

Warnings: 18+, explicit language, violence, guns, car crash

Authors note: Chapter Seven - Redwine: eeeeeee, sorry this one isn't as long as most of them! It's very action packed and I felt like it was already a lot to digest tbh lol. I do hope you enjoy tho! Song is Redwine by unprocesses (10/10 recommend listening, especially at the end hehe) (I stayed up till 2am writing this which is very bad because I really should sleep but yolo!)

THIS IS A FANFICTION USING REAL PEOPLE IN A FICTIONAL SITUATION! I AM NOT IMPLYING THESE PEOPLE WOULD DO THE THINGS IN THE STORY OR ACT THE WAY THEY DO IN THE STORY IN REAL LIFE! IT IS FICTION! IT IS JUST FOR FUN! <3

Tags: @crimson-calligraphyx @lma1986 @spicywhenspeaking @sammyjoeee @shilohrosechicken @princessmarshmallowx @laurpartyprogram @cookiesupplier @nojoyontheburn @lacktoesandtoddlerant @veronicaphoenix @er3nslovergirl @cncohshit @thescarlettvvitch @scrumptiousfestivalpost @melcchs @flowery-mess @mentallynot-here @judging-from-afar @darkmxgician @badomensls

Noah jumped on the floor as his hair whipped around, feeling the intro and the crowd cheered, before he gripped the mic stand, preparing to sing.

“Mine immaculate dream Made breath and skin, I've been waiting for you Signed, with a home tattoo Happy birthday to you was created for you.”

I bobbed my head, proud as guests began singing along. It wasn’t until Noah’s voice became deeper and raspier with the chorus that I smiled wider, heart hammering as he sang, watching me periodically from the stand.

“Who do you need? Who do you love When you come undone? Who do you need? Who do you love When you come undone?”

The evening went on as the boys covered various songs, before getting ready to perform their last song for the night.

“Thank you guys so much for jamming along!” Noah yelled before sipping his water bottle, “It’s about to get heavy, so I want to see you mother fuckers headbang!”

The crowd cheered as Noah introduced Glass Houses, and the song began.

I banged my head with the music as their hair flew in spirals, pulling out my phone to record them.

As I opened my phone I saw a text message from an unknown number. Clicking on it my stomach immediately dropped as my limbs warmed with complete terror.

Los Angeles, hey? It’s about time we booked a vacation anyway. See you soon, my volto x

+++++

U̧̢̼̹͓͇̮͈͕̰͑͗ͭ̂̐̓̾̇̑̀̑̌̅̈͟͢͞Ń̷̙͎͍̘͈̰̫̫̭̼͇̻̱͈̝̇͐̌ͧͥ̅͑̏̈̐̉ͫ͝͡͠K̷̴̷̸͇̤̝̥͓̤̖̣̇̏ͭ̇̇̍ͨ͞_̸̸̨̡͎̭̄NͨO̅͆WͨŅ̷̢̮̣̰͚̝̮ͫ̑̾ͤ͌̉̀ͧͪͅͅ

The square room was grim and damp, the cracked cement floor and torn wooden walls uninviting.

It was a place rarely used, but necessary in times such as these. It had been almost a year since it held a visitor, but the chair chained to the ground in the middle of the room remained untouched, ready for its guest.

I nodded at the men who trailed behind me, dropping the duffle bag of items to the ground.

Stale air hung heavily and I smiled, the waves from the water outside echoing along the corridor.

The perfect place to keep a body.

+̴̡̧̹̿̊̇̀̾̽̉̈́̾̓̚͘+̶̧̻̰̣̳͉̈́̐͛̏̐͆+̷̝̻̗͖̞̗̟̬̉͆́̓͒̀̐̽̐̚͘͝+̸̨̡̡͓͚̱̲̻͚̭̙̩̤̐ͅ+̷̨͈̗̾͒̑͝

NOAH

After our performance finished the five of us left, packing ourselves and the equipment into the van.

Jolly, Ruffilo and Folio were extremely giddy, excitement radiating off of them. At first, I felt this way too, the adrenaline rushing through me from how well it went, and how receptive our audience was. We even had a few people take photos with us, something that surprised me.

But these feelings were short-lived once I noticed Y/N’s behaviour: anxious and detached.

Y/N barely looked at any of us after the show, and she silently waited in the car, eyes glued to her phone.

I waited to ask until we were on the road towards home, her body placed between me and Ruffilo in the middle row of the van. Nicholas noticed her off demeanour as well, his eyes flicking between me and her, nodding his head towards her as he silently cued me to ask what was wrong.

My eyes furrowed at him as I shook my head back, nodding at him to ask her. They’ve gotten close, he might as well do it.

Nicholas rolled his eyes as he shrugged his shoulders, nodding at me once more.

“What are you two doing?” Y/N sighed quietly, looking up from her phone and turning her head between the two of us.

“Uh,” I laughed awkwardly, scratching the back of my head, “well we are both a little worried about you,” I admitted.

Y/N stared at me intensely, chewing on her lip in contemplation. Her face scrunched as conflict arose on her features before she handed me her phone. The screen was bright against the midnight darkness that cascaded around the vehicle. I looked down at the message displayed on the screen, my chest pounding as I read the words.

“Do you know who sent this?” I asked as my eyes widened in worry.

“Sent what?” Nicholas leaned over Y/N, attempting to read the screen. I don’t know if Y/N told the boys what she told me; so I closed the phone, handing it back to her.

She opened the phone again before passing it to Nicholas, and his own face contorted before staring at Y/N, “Volto?”

Y/N sighed again, knowing she would have to repeat everything she told me earlier, “I have a lot to explain to you guys… but for now, I’m not sure who sent the message.”

“Well it has to be someone who knows about the mask,” I suggested before turning my attention to Jolly who groaned in annoyance, staring out the rearview mirror while he clutched the steering wheel.

“God damn asshole, riding my ass.”

Folio looked out the side mirror, matching Jolly’s tone, “What a dick.”

I ignored them, eyeing Y/N, “Do you think it’s one of the Fidelio guys?”

“One of the twins, probably,” She watched back carefully, her eyes becoming distant as she became quiet, “And if it is, I’m fucked.”

I shook my head, my hand trailing down to hold onto her thigh gently, “I will let nothing happen to you.” I squeezed my fingers reassuringly, “I’ll keep you safe.”

She gave me a warm smile as her arm began to shake from the anxiety.

“Can this guy seriously fuck off?” Jolly now growled angrily through gritted teeth, tapping the brakes firmly as a warning which sent our bodies forward from the momentum.

“Dude don’t break-check them,” Nick warned from the passenger seat, holding onto the dashboard, “They’ll hit the gear in the trunk if they smash into us.”

Y/N and Nicholas turned to look out the back window, glaring at the car that rode almost against our bumper. I peeked from the side mirror, watching the headlight’s blind reflection shine against us.

Jolly revved the engine, accelerating against the gas pedal to speed up in an attempt to get away. The car behind followed suit, pulling up to us once again.

I scoffed, leaning forward to look at the speedometer, “Jesus Christ. You’re going the speed limit, right?”

“Of course I am Idiot. I don’t know what this fucker’s problem is,” Jolly’s grip tightened on the wheel as he kept looking back.

“Just make a right,” Nicholas stated as he continued watching behind, “let them pass us; I don’t want anyone getting hurt. We can turn back after.”

Jolly groaned in frustration as he signalled in agreeance, turning at the next light. As we did, the car behind followed suit and we watched in confusion.

“Uh hello?” Jolly yelled, shaking his head. He took another right, and the car followed us down the street once again.

“Are they…following us?” I squinted at the mirror again intensely, eying the lights.

“Jolly,” Y/N said, her breath hitching, “Take another right…”

He agreed, and the car still followed.

“One more,” Her voice was quiet now, her hand slipping into mine. Y/N entwined our fingers nervously, her palms clammy. My heart twitched in awe that she wanted to hold my hand.

“If the car turns with us,” she said restlessly, “They’re following us… because then we will be on the same road as before.”

My leg bounced as I watched this unfold, Nicholas and I peering at each other as we turned right. I sucked in an anticipated breath as there were no lights following for a moment; but then the same car turned the corner, speeding up to us.

“Shit,” Jolly pushed the gas pedal, sending the car forward. Y/N turned to look at me with worry, and I couldn’t help but match her expression. I held her hand firmly, my other gripping the handle that hung from the roof.

“Do you think-” Y/N’s voice wavered as she clung to me, “It’s them?”

Nicholas watched, confused, “Who? What is going on?”

“Jolly, step on it,” Nick yelled.

“Actually I was thinking of pulling over and chatting- Of course I’m fucking stepping on it!” Jolly mumbled in miffed anger, turning again.

The street light up ahead flashed yellow and the van rumbled beneath as Jolly floored it to make the light in time. The chase intensified as he navigated through the chaos of the city. Y/N squeezed my hand nervously and leaned into my side.

“We need to get out of town- who knows what’ll happen if we have to stop at a red light,” Nicholas huffed, turning back and forth between us and the car.

“Well, I ain’t stopping at a red light regardless,” Jolly turned the vehicle again, our bodies swaying with the velocity, “but hold on.”

It was a race down the vacant streets as we hastily sped past various buildings. They became a blur, before completely disappearing once we reached the outskirts of the city.

“Folio,” I grabbed the back of his seat, pulling my face next to his, “Are the extra masks and guns still in the glovebox?”

Nick opened the glovebox and Y/N’s pills spilled out, rolling onto the floor. I frowned for a brief moment before watching Nick reach for the fabric that lay inside. He passed each of us a mask, except Y/N, before handing me the gun.

I pulled out the clip, checking that I had enough rounds. Clicking it back in, I slipped the black mask over my face, Nicholas and Nick following.

I peered at Y/N through the holes of the mask, her eyes widening with fear.

“What’s the plan?” Nick asked from the front, rummaging underneath the seat for a moment before pulling out another gun. He passed it to Nicholas, who slid it into his waistband.

I watched the car’s erratic movements as it swayed with us, mimicking our every twist and turn.

“Pull off the road and confront them?” Nicholas suggested, and I snickered, rolling down the window.

“Time to play a game,” I muttered, unbuckling my seatbelt.

“Noah-” Y/N gripped my wrist, holding me, “What are you doing?”

I pulled away from her grip, “Warning shots. Maybe get a tire or two.”

I turned my body so I was facing the back, before pulling my head out of the window. The wind whipped past the back of my body forcefully as the car drove hastily along the road, my arm wobbling through the instability of the speed. My other hand remained holding onto the handle inside, attempting to ground myself, to avoid falling out of the moving car.

I held up the gun, pointing it toward the car that trailed behind tauntingly. Without hesitating I pulled the trigger, my finger grazing the metal as it fired. My wrist moved subtly with the kickback and I watched the bullet bounce off the pavement before I shot another, now hitting the hood of the car. The metal twanged in response, small sparks flying.

The vehicle swerved, attempting to avoid my shots as I fired a few more. The drivers slowed down for a second before speeding up, ignoring my threat.

I snarled at their resilience, firing another shot that then flew into the left headlight, burning it out. The car sped up again, this time pulling up right into the bumper.

They were going to try and hit us off the road.

“Fuck,” I muttered angrily, slipping back inside the car. I clicked my seatbelt into place, checking Y/N’s and making sure it was secure.

“So clearly they’re not backing off!” Nick screamed through the sound of the engine, and Jolly yelled at him.

“No shit!”

With a surge of determination, Jolly gripped the steering wheel tightly and pushed down on the accelerator one last time, determined to escape the chaos unfolding behind us. My heart hammered as I watched Jolly push the van to its limits, and the race against time and fate left Y/N uneasy beside me.

“I can’t go fast enough in this piece of shit they’re gonna hit us,” Jolly blared, knuckles whitening, “Hold on!”

Jolly slowed in an attempt to brace for impact, and the car behind us rammed into our bumper, the screeching of tires filling the air as our vehicle swerved to the side. The world seemed to slow as our bodies swung, our van colliding with the car of the unknown. I reached for Y/N, our fingers barely able to entwine as my lungs collapsed, my breath escaping me in complete shock.

The air was thick with the smell of burnt rubber and gasoline, my mind in a haze. Our van spun into the cement barricade that bordered the highway and the impact sent debris flying in all directions, the shockwave of the collision reverberating within my body. Glass from the windows shattered around us, spraying like glitter in the moonlight as the impact jolted the five of us forward. Time was still as the turmoil unfolded in a split second, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

As my head throbbed and ears rang, the faint taste of blood lingered on my tongue. Dust and debris filled the air as whiplash consumed me, and I peered at Y/N whose body hung folded over the middle seat.

“Y/N-” I coughed, choking on the lack of oxygen that fought to fill my lungs. I reached for her, my knuckles torn from the glass. The world began to fade away as I pushed myself toward her, gripping her body.

“Y/N,” I yelled, and she groaned, her head flopping towards me. A trail of crimson trickled from her forehead, dirt coating her features. She coughed and sucked in a shaky breath, before her E/C eyes opened, landing on me.

“Noah,” She whispered, barely audible as she blinked slowly, coming to. Adrenaline coursed through my veins, and the shock of the situation hit like a ton of bricks as I remembered the situation seconds prior. Whoever hit us was surely going to get to us any second.

I pulled away from Y/N’s grip slowly, leaning down as my head spun, searching for the gun.

“Ruffles-” Y/N turned to him with worry, moving slowly as she placed a hand on both sides of his face, checking the cuts that dug into his skin.

Nicholas moaned in pain as he responded, and my eyes followed his gaze towards Jolly and Folio. Both airbags had exploded, their heads lying against the white canvas that was gradually beginning to deflate. Were they alive?

My heart raced as I gripped the gun lying on the floor, before attempting to push myself between the seats, a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach, “Nick? Jolly?”

“What the fuck,” Nick murmured in pain and I sighed in relief once I heard his voice, before poking Jolly. He let out a loud grunt.

The van was in complete shambles, and I struggled to free myself from the twisted metal and broken glass that surrounded us. I kicked open the backseat door and crawled out of the car, my hands landing on the cool asphalt. The dimly lit surroundings cast eerie shadows, adding to the disorientation and vulnerability as I stood up, scoping out the scene.

The car that followed us was barely smashed on the other side of the road; both front doors opened once I was in view. A gunshot flew past my ear, ricocheting off the cement.

“Shit, shit, shit,” I muttered under my breath, ducking behind the wreckage of the van. I peered into the vehicle as Y/N rubbed her eyes, “They’re firing at us!”

Nick pushed the door open, his body rolling onto the ground, groaning, “The gun,” He swayed, pulling himself up, searching the car with a hand, “Ruffilo! Give me the gun!”

More shots were fired from behind and I covered my head, looking back at Y/N who hid in Nicholas’ chest, completely afraid. He gripped her tightly, protecting her head as he threw the gun to Folio, who cocked it, placing his back against the torn metal.

Jolly yelled at Nick to move as he crawled from the driver’s seat to the passengers, sliding out, and hiding behind the debris, “We need to form a plan!”

“There’s no time,” I growled, closing my eyes as my breath heaved from my chest, anticipating the worst as the shots got closer and closer, bouncing between the road and the metal of the car.

I got down on the ground, my knees rubbing against the rock as I peeked around what was left of the bumper. Amongst the dust from the collision two figures appeared from the smoke, their black suits slick and barely untouched- comical.

My eyes squinted in recognition as I looked at their heads, the slick silver sheen glinting from the moonlight. The muzzle was long, and the ears appeared sharp and pointy, followed by a set of painted black features.

Fox masks covered their identity, the two walking in sync towards us.

The article. The Twins.

“Noah-” Jolly hunched over, his breathing erratic as his tattered long hair peeked from beneath the mask he now slid over his face, “Who is it?”

My mind skimmed to a conclusion as I scooted back, “They’re here for Y/N. We need to get her away from here, or at least distract them till she can run.”

“N0,” Y/N pulled herself from Nicholas, tears streaming down her face. She peered out the broken window, a hand climbing to her mouth as she held it there in fear once she saw them, “You guys need to run. They want me, I don’t need you getting hurt.”

I shook my head, cocking the gun, “I told you I would protect you. I will not go back on my word.”

“No, you don’t understand,” She almost screamed in dread, “That has to be Kiean and Kade. They used to tell me if shit hit the fan, they’d turn to the fox masks.”

“What does that mean?” I shook my head in confusion, looking at them once again before turning my attention to Y/N.

“They twisted an old Indigenous legend of the fox twins,” She said, watching them as she spoke, “instead of the twins growing as heroes from their demise, they strive for revenge.”

I pulled at the fabric that covered my face, readjusting it before standing up. I dropped the loaded gun next to my foot, before revealing myself from behind the car.

“Noah!” She yelled, but I continued walking out, holding my hands up.

The one on the right pointed the gun at me, my throat aching from the adrenaline as I heaved nervously.

“Where is she,” His voice was muffled from the mask, deep and antagonizing as he held the threat menacingly.

I shook my head, hands held up high in surrender, “Who the hell are you talking about?”

“You think I’m stupid?” The man scoffed, turning his head to look at his companion before back at me.

“You assholes were following us. I don’t know who you’re talking about and what you want.” my demeanour was cold, and overly calm considering the circumstances. I was a ticking time bomb, ready to lunge at any second.

A deep laugh erupted behind the same mask, “I will shoot you. Get her out here.”

I scoffed, lowering my hands, “Look, we don’t have anything you want. So, I think we’re done here.”

The gun pointed toward me clicked, and I swallowed harshly, staring at the barrel.

“Y/N,” The man said, her name foreign and vile as it trailed from his mouth. He knew she was there.

I dared not to look at the car behind me, but I noticed a figure move from my peripheral. No Y/N, don’t.

“Again,” I laughed, mocking them with stupidity, “There’s only four of us- and this Y/N person isn’t one-”

The man then took quick steps forward with the gun, and before I knew it Y/N shouted, exposing herself as she stood in front of me, guarding my chest.

“NO!”

Fuck.

The fox tilted his head as the gun was now placed in front of Y/N’s forehead, her shoulders heaving with her erratic breaths. Her arms were out protectively toward the men as she placed herself between death and remorse; the other gun from the car within her grasp. My stomach swirled with unease and liability.

Seconds felt like minutes as we stood there; but finally, his weapon lowered, arm slowly resting against his side. His free hand reached underneath the bottom of the plastic that covered his head, peeling off the layer of false anonymity.

Dull green eyes met mine, the repulsion behind them dissolving me from the inside out. His gaze was almost feral as his lip turned into a snarl at my presence; he didn’t dare look away as he spoke.

“This?” he scoffed, appalled, “You moved on to this piece of shit?”

The wavy head of dirty blonde hair that sat on his head was paired with a straight upturned nose, slight facial hair, and a nose ring. He was the definition of a pretty-white boy surfer, and my eyes narrowed.

“Fucking whore.” He spit as he then stared at Y/N, his jaw clenching. The muscles in his neck tightened as he watched her viciously.

“Kade,” The next voice warned, and I peered at the twin who stood behind him. As he took his mask off I swore I heard Y/N gasp ever so lightly, the gun in her grasp lowering slightly.

This man looked almost identical to the one looming over us; except his hair was to his shoulders, the top tied back into a small bun. His eyes seemed softer- gentler. The emerald gaze was more vibrant as he stared at her; until he met mine.

“Please,” Y/N’s voice wavered, “Let him go. Take me, but let him go.”

“Why?” Kade laughed, tapping the gun against his thigh, “you care about him?”

Kade stepped forward, and Y/N stepped back, pushing into my torso.

“Hmm?” He taunted.

“I- you don’t need to do anything irrational,” She held up her hands. She was afraid.

“This your new toy?” The blonde’s words began digging into her, but his eyes remained on me.

She hiccuped, holding her hands up in front of her face in defence as he got closer to us.

“You’re fucking him now?” He roared.

“K-Kiean,” She stuttered, almost in a plea toward the other twin.

Kiean.

As I went to move in front of her, the back of Kade’s hand swung into Y/N’s head, the handle of the gun cutting the skin above her lip. She clutched her face as she stumbled backward, falling onto the asphalt. The gun slid across the road.

Anger rose from my chest instantly, “Don’t you fucking touch her,” My voice dripped with venom, and without thinking I held my arm up, sending a forceful blow into the side of Kade’s neck.

As if a bomb went off, he lunged for me, my back sliding onto the cement as he fell on top of me, “I want to see your pathetic face,” He screamed, his anger ripping from his throat as he began punching my chest, clawing at the fabric that covered me.

The air I had left was dispersing from my lungs as I began rolling with him, punching him back.

“Noah!” Y/N screamed as she scrambled to her feet, running toward me; but the other twin grabbed her, caging her in his arms. She thrashed aggressively, attempting to free herself.

I heard the shuffling of footsteps from the side and Jolly appeared, throwing himself into Kade’s body. Nick was right behind, picking me up as Nicholas ran toward Y/N and Kiean.

A gunshot ripped through the air and everybody froze, my ears ringing with anticipation.

Time slowed once again as I looked up at Y/N.

Kiean held Y/N firmly, the gun pointed at her head. Tears of terror began brimming her eyes as she grabbed at the suit covering his arm.

I exhaled quickly as I watched Y/N; the fear in her eyes radiating back at me- hopeless. I shook my head, licking my lips in panic; I needed her. It took everything in me not to run toward her as the gun pressed vehemently into her skull.

“Don’t move,” Kiean said, slowly backing towards the car. Kade quickly got his feet, scurrying away from Jolly and following his copy. Kade grabbed the gun that Y/N had dropped, pointing it toward the four of us.

“Noah-” Y/N cried, her body convulsing in her captor’s arms as he dragged her closer to the car.

Her lips trembled as she screamed her last word before Kiean put her in the car, “Run.”

Kade began to fire at us and we ducked, running back to the smashed van for shelter as bullets flew past us. My heartbeat pounded in my ears as adrenaline washed through me once again. I wanted to yell, I wanted to cry. I wanted to run to Y/N, and I wanted to tell her it would all be okay.

But I couldn’t- she was gone.

And I was a coward.

A useless fucking coward.

The gunshots ceased as the engine revved, doors slamming as the sound of wheels spinning out filled the midnight scene. The car began racing down the road, taking Y/N with them.

My saving grace.

Our heavy breathing was all I could hear as I squeezed my eyes shut, an angry scream crawling from my lungs. I threw my mask to the grounds.

+++++

The leaves crunched beneath my feet as I waded, tears brimming my eyes. I placed the white flower on top of the stone, sighing as I sniffed and sat down. The dying grass was wet beneath my legs, but I didn’t care.

“It’s been a while,” I whispered, lowering my head towards my deaf listeners. The breeze swirled through my hair, my brunette locks swaying gently with each gust. I zipped up my black jacket, placing my hands into the pockets.

“I met a nice girl,” I laughed ever so softly, her image filling my mind. I closed them once the memory of two nights ago crashed through her smile, blurring the good and bad.

“And I already fucked up,” I wiped my nose as my throat tightened, “I tainted her.”

The wind whistled between the graves as if responding.

I picked at the grass for a moment, playing nervously with the strands I pulled from the dirt, “she’s gone. I don’t know how to find her.”

My vision blurred as silent tears fell, and my head bowed again.

“I miss you, mom.” I used my sleeve to dry my cheeks, “and you, dad.”

The three of us sat in silence, the trees above the cemetery singing with the autumn air. I spoke to them for a few more minutes. I tried to make it quick, knowing that if I stayed longer I wouldn't be able to leave.

“I hope you get to meet her someday,” I murmured as I stood, dusting off my pants.

“I’d like to hear about this girl.”

My stomach dropped as I whipped around in alarm, my heart thumping rapidly once I met his silver completion.

+++++

U̧̢̼̹͓͇̮͈͕̰͑͗ͭ̂̐̓̾̇̑̀̑̌̅̈͟͢͞Ń̷̙͎͍̘͈̰̫̫̭̼͇̻̱͈̝̇͐̌ͧͥ̅͑̏̈̐̉ͫ͝͡͠K̷̴̷̸͇̤̝̥͓̤̖̣̇̏ͭ̇̇̍ͨ͞_̸̸̨̡͎̭̄NͨO̅͆WͨŅ̷̢̮̣̰͚̝̮ͫ̑̾ͤ͌̉̀ͧͪͅͅ

Soon, I’ll kill my final piece of evidence… and soon, I’ll have control of Fidelio.

+̴̡̧̹̿̊̇̀̾̽̉̈́̾̓̚͘+̶̧̻̰̣̳͉̈́̐͛̏̐͆+̷̝̻̗͖̞̗̟̬̉͆́̓͒̀̐̽̐̚͘͝+̸̨̡̡͓͚̱̲̻͚̭̙̩̤̐ͅ+̷̨͈̗̾͒̑͝

We couldn’t save our lives but we’re here Drunk and fucked up so in love what we once had Now it’s over, one last time here On the streets but they lead nowhere Time and time again we were not thankful for our gifts Things we took for granted like a sweet kiss on your lips We could have been at the start of our days but it ends Stories have been told You’re so pretty when you’re drunk In a world like that

Chapter 8 coming soon

[timid-raccoon]

New Year's is really amazing piece, good job, I love it!🤍

Thank you so much! I'm glad you liked it, that makes me really happy 🥹❤